Engineered Reactive Metal Oxyhydroxides (ERMO) for Detection and Decontamination of Toxic Reagents

Several shortcomings such as lack of reactivity and selectivity are associated with currently available sorbent-based decontaminants. For example, carbon based sorbents can only physisorb toxins without neutralizing them. Secondly, all solid sorbents are sensitive to humid air. Thirdly, reduced reactivity due to mass transfer problem is characteristic of solid sorbents. Finally, solid sorbents capable of both chemical and biological decontaminations are scarce. This proposal addresses these needs by developing methodologies for preparation of highly reactive mixed metal oxyhydroxides for use in the area of protective garments and filters. The overall objective of this collaborative Phase I research between NanoScale and Kansas State University is to create and test new materials that would be useful for protection against chemical and biological hazards. In order to achieve the overall objective, initially, methodologies will be developed to make porous high surface area mixed metal oxyhydroxide materials. Following performance assessment, formulations with optimum reactivities will be incorporated with organic dyes and evaluated for their utility as visible indicators of CBWs and TICs.