75

 

Hanheld Chemical Analysis System for Field Use--Nomadics, Inc., 1730 Cimarron Plaza, Stillwater, OK  74075; 405-372-9535

Dr. Brian Strecker, Principal Investigator

Mr. James H. Luby, Business Official

DOE Grant No. DE-FG03-00ER83055

Amount:  $99,976

 

The timely identification of chemicals of concern in the field would greatly aid military forces, environmental monitors, industry, hazardous materials handlers and responders, and others that may be exposed to hazardous materials.  This capability requires the development of sensitive handheld devices that are easy to use.  Nomadics proposes to apply an innovative approach to chemical detection that allows the creation of a long pathlength chamber for colorimetric analyses.  This is achieved through the use of microspheres, miniature balls of optical material that transmits light around its diameter.  Nomadics, in collaboration with Oklahoma State University, has developed methods for coupling light in and out of the microspheres so that chemical samples can be analyzed.  During Phase I, we will develop a prototype device that will demonstrate the ability to take colorimetic readings of chemical samples.  The sensor will be incorporated into a microfluidic chip for chemical analysis.

 

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The microsphere-based device will be useful for performing colorimetric analyses in the field. This capability will benefit many industries, including water quality monitoring, environmental site assessment, industrial waste verification, hazardous materials response teams, and others. The device will be portable and low-cost so that widespread use will be possible.