Miniature Spectrometer Can Detect Biological Hazards

TERRORWARS

Oak Ridge - Mar 19, 2003
Researchers at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a miniature device that can identify as little as a fraction of a spore of anthrax and other biological hazards within 30 milliseconds.

The Calorimetric Spectrometer (CalSpec) device technology can accurately identify biological hazards such as anthrax almost instantly.

The device can operate with only a fraction of a spore while isolating the DNA/RNA photothermal signature that allows for detection, identification and measurement of a substance.

Such prompt detection and identification of hazardous materials could greatly enhance the protection of first-responder emergency personnel and the capabilities of early warning systems. Current technologies do not provide the level of sensitivity offered by the CalSpec TM chemical, biological and DNA/RNA detection system.

Researchers Panos Datskos and Slobodan Rajiic of ORNL's Engineering Science and Technology Division developed the CalSpec technology.

ORNL has licensed the technology exclusively to Innovative American Technology of Herndon, Va., and Boca Raton, Fla.

The CalSpec can detect hazards by identifying their molecules. The molecular absorption can induce stress changes that allow for an initial detection that can be used for measurement. The identification of chemical and/or biological molecules, along with DNA/RNA, creates a photothermal signature.

The spectrometer could have a wide variety of applications in commercial industry and in homeland defense, including mass transit and airport security; in the postal industry, to protect workers and the public; and in monitoring air quality systems.

"The CalSpec detection device could provide a cost-effective and easily deployed upgrade for these systems to enable rapid detection, greater accuracy and -- most important -- increased sensitivity down to a fraction of a spore," said Jack Cummings, vice president of business development for Innovative American Technology.

ORNL and Innovative American Technology are working in a collaborative effort to commercialize the CalSpec technology. The device will be offered as both a laboratory and field-test device for chemical, biological and DNA/RNA detection. It is expected to be on the market by 2004.

TECH SPACE

New Crystalline Structures May Open Door to Molecular Filters

Rochester - Mar 17, 2003
Imagine a mask that could allow a person to breathe the oxygen in the air without the risk of inhaling a toxic gas, bacterium or even a virus. Effectively filtering different kinds of molecules has always been difficult, but a new process by researchers at the University of Rochester may have paved the way to creating a new kind of membrane with pores so fine they can separate a mixture of gases.

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