A multicomponent indicator ticket for presumptive field identification of hazardous materials

The objective of this program is to demonstrate a multicomponent ticket that affords a human-readable indicator response to chemical agents, protein-content, and explosive/energetic materials for presumptive field identification. The current product, M8 paper, lacks selectivity and only works for the identification of three classes of chemical threat agents. Multiple products are required to detect additional chemical agent types, biological materials, and energetic/explosive compounds. In this program, we will leverage our expertise in low-cost paper based diagnostic devices and dye chemistry to develop a multicomponent indicator that can detect chemical, biological and explosive materials with one single ticket. We will use proven printing technologies to create well-defined channels to host various indicator dyes to achieve simultaneous multicomponent detection. The new indicator chemistries will allow us to significantly improve sensitivity and selectivity.