Improved M8 Test Paper for Chemical Agent Detection

Intelligent Optical Systems (IOS) proposes to develop a field-rugged, colorimetric indicating test paper that is capable of detecting multiple chemical warfare agents (CWAs), at low concentrations, in adverse environments. The proposed sensor array will detect threatening chemical agents and provide a visual readout after coming in contact with the agent, or agents. This array will overcome the stability issues encountered with current M8 test paper, allow vapor phase detection, and add a self reporting feature, eliminating the need for visual inspection. This will be obtained by implementing an innovative process immobilizing M8 colorimetric indicators in IOS novel cross-linked polymers, which will add robustness to the test platform, specifically in outdoor environments. As a starting point for this project, IOS will use its proprietary repertoire of CWA-sensitive colorimetric polymers that were developed for a fiber optic-based chemical warfare agent sensing system currently in"beta test"deployment. Our novel polymers have many advantages as a support medium, including a low glass transition temperature (broad operating range), no swelling by water (immersible in water without impact on performance), excellent permeation of target agents (fast detection), flexible and rugged containment of indicators (robustness and longevity), and ease of manufacturing (amenable to large scale production).