Applications of everyday IT and communications devices in modern analytical chemistry: A review

This paper reviews the development and recent use of everyday communications and IT equipment (mobile phones, digital cameras, scanners, webcams, etc) as detection devices for colorimetric chemistries. Such devices can readily be applied for visible detection using reaction formats such as microfluidic paper based analytical devices (µPADs), indicator papers, and well plate reaction vessels. Their use is highly advantageous with respect to cost, simplicity and portability, and offers many opportunities in the areas of point of care diagnosis, and at-site monitoring of environmental, agricultural, food and beverage parameters. [Display omitted] •This paper reviews the development and recent use of everyday communications.•IT equipment (mobile phones, digital cameras, scanners, webcams, etc.) is used.•They can be served as detection devices for colorimetric chemistries.•It can readily be applied for visible detection using reaction formats.