Sensitive, Fast-Acting Blister CWA-Disclosing Spray

Chemical warfare agents (CWAs) pose a severe threat due to their high toxicity and persistence on surfaces. Rapid detection is critical for military first responders operating in contaminated environments, yet existing detection methods often require direct sampling, specialized equipment, or complex chemical synthesis, limiting their practicality. Luna Labs is developing a spray-based blister agent-disclosing system for sulfur mustard (HD), designed to provide a rapid, visible response on contaminated surfaces. This system utilizes highly efficient chemical probes that react with HD to produce a distinct color change within five minutes. Unlike traditional detection methods, Luna Labs’ probes can be synthesized in three or fewer steps with high yields (>80%), ensuring cost-effective scalability. In Phase I, Luna Labs demonstrated that the spray system reliably detects HD simulants with no false positives from common chlorine-containing compounds. Phase II will focus on increasing probe sensitivity, improving formulation stability, and validating performance on military-relevant substrates, including Chemical Agent Resistant Coating (CARC) paint and polymer composites. Additionally, direct feedback from CBRN personnel will guide system optimization to ensure practical field deployment. This technology provides an accessible, scalable solution for CWA detection, enhancing the safety and effectiveness of military first responders.