Emerging Trends in Methods for Arsenic Detection in Drinking Water

Abstract Arsenic (As) contamination in drinking water is a critical public health concern due to its high toxicity and long‐term health effects, such as cancer, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. Effective detection of low concentrations of As requires the development of high‐speed, disposable, and portable sensors with a low limit of detection to protect human health and minimize risks from chronic exposure. This review assesses recent progress in arsenic detection methods, with a focus on innovative sensor methodologies that enhance sensitivity, specificity, and cost‐effectiveness. Emerging approaches, including electrochemical sensors, biosensor platforms, and nanotechnology‐based systems, are explored in detail. Electrochemical sensors and nanomaterials offer rapid and affordable solutions for on‐site measurement of As. Biosensors using aptamers or whole‐cell systems were reported with high selectivity and field adaptability. Progress in microfluidic and optical sensor technologies has led to the development of portable and real‐time detection tools. Despite these advances, challenges remain, such as interference from coexisting metal ions, limited sensor stability, and barriers to large‐scale implementation. Future research should focus on the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) to enable continuous monitoring, as well as developing reusable and self‐regenerative sensors to ensure long‐term sustainability in water quality assessment. This review provides a comprehensive overview of current arsenic detection technologies and outlines strategic directions for researchers and policymakers aiming to improve the safety of drinking water on a global scale.