SBIR Phase I: A Fast Field Portable Gas Phase Explosives Detector

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This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project proposes to establish proof concept for a sensitive, rapid response, portable biosensor that can be utilized in the detection of undetonated explosives in air. A prototype instrument will be derived from the results of this research based on the detection of the gas phase antibody-antigen reaction between immobilized TNT antibody and vapor phase TNT using Surface Plasmon Resonance Spectroscopy (SPRS). The research involves two studies: ionization of the specific antibody onto a specially prepared gold surface and exploration of the capabilities of SPRS to detect the antibody-antigen reaction. The studies will also assess the limits of delectability, speed, and reproducibility of detection. A need exists for fast, reliable, field portable detectors for undetonated explosives. Applications can range from the detection of luggage bombs at airports to the detection of land mines and other explosives for the military. This award is supported by the Small Business Innovation Research Program and the Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR).