Multi-Enzyme Based Sensor for Water Contaminant Detection

Luna Innovations collaborating with the University of New Mexico will determine the feasibility of developing a light weight handheld multi-enzyme sensor device that is capable of detecting a wide array of water contaminants, toxic industrial chemicals (TICs). The proposed multi-enzyme electrode technology will provide significant improvements in sensitivity, operational stability, and shelf life over existing technologies, resulting in an easy to operate, low power, field ready device. During Phase I Luna will demonstrate the performance of a multi-enzyme electrode sensor system by detecting the presence of 8 out of 12 TICs. Phase II will focus on increasing shelf life and operational conditions, extending the detectable TIC range, and constructing two prototypes for delivery to the U.S. Army. Concurrently, Luna will be working to adapt the encapsulated enzyme electrodes as sensor devices for other non-military applications, including water utilities at the state and local levels.