The mechanism of action involves the device identifying the compounds by utilizing the proteins present in bacteria residing in heavily polluted water.

The presence of an aromatic compound like phenol or benzene causes the protein to hydrolyze when mixed with water, leading to a change in color, which is identified by the device.

MopR, an engineered molecule from the Acinetobacter bacteria, is responsible for detecting phenol.

This molecule has been re-engineered to aid in the identification of other aromatic compounds.

The device has an overall cost of $50 and is cost-effective due to its reusability.

Currently, the initial functional prototype is ready, and further quality analysis is being conducted to make it market-ready.