Improved M8 Test Paper for Chemical Agent Detection

Detection of chemical warfare agents (CWAs) such as V, H, and G agents is currently performed using the easy-to-use, simple, and rapid M8 test papers to detect and differentiate among these agents. However, frequent replacement is usually required for these test papers in outdoor applications because of the degradation by exposure to sun, dust, and rain. Moreover, visual inspection is needed to assess each test paper, so a self-reporting system is critical to reducing the personnel needed for inspection. Intelligent Optical Systems (IOS) proposes to continue the development of a field-rugged, colorimetric sensor array that can detect multiple CWAs, in both aerosol and vapor phase, in adverse environments. The sensor array will detect threatening CWAs and generate a visual self-reporting readout. The Phase I results have demonstrated the feasibility of highly stable polymer claddings overcoming the instability of current M8 test paper. The material being developed will perform vapor phase detection, and will be self-reporting, eliminating the need for visual inspection. In Phase II, IOS will build on the successful Phase I results to finalize, optimize, and produce a manufacturing plan for the improved detection platform.