Highly sensitive electrochemical and optical sensors for explosives
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Categories |
Homeland Security, Explosives Detection |
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Development Stage |
Proof of concept for TNT and RDX; ongoing work with other explosives |
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United States patent application filed |
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Market Size |
Estimated annual U.S. market for explosives sensors almost $50 million |
Highlights
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Most sensitive sensors available to date – considerably more sensitive than dogs
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Sensitivity of 10-15 molar achieved
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Readout signal for sensing is electrochemical (current) or optical (surface plasmon resonance)
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Available readers will need adaptation for field work
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Analysis of TNT and RDX
Our Innovation
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Highly sensitive explosives detectors based on the molecular imprinting of recognition sites for various explosives in a 3-dimensional network of metallic nano-particles associated with surfaces.
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The explosives particles are collected and dissolved in water droplets that are then analyzed.
Key Features
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Method is specific for the target explosive
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Enables parallel analysis of several explosives
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Very high sensitivity
Development Milestones
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Ready for commercialization – seeking partner with expertise in explosive particle collection systems
The Opportunity
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Detection of explosives used in humanitarian mine clearing, remediation of explosives waste sites, homeland security and forensics
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Detection of TNT particularly important for mine detection
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Detection of RDX, an explosive with low vapour pressure
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