Quantum Dot Labeled Bio-Taggants for Enhanced Remote Detection

The use of taggants to mark and identify objects and materials is an emerging technology with many potential applications. One very important taggant application is the ability to remotely identify appropriately tagged materials and objects from airborne platforms. Biological materials, or bio-taggants, have the potential to effectively and selectively mark targets of high interest. Intelligent Optical Systems proposes to enhance the detectability of bio-taggants via a two pronged approach: attaching specialized, biocompatible quantum dots (QDs) to bio-taggant agents, and using a specialized time-correlated photon counting system designed to sensitively detect QD fluorescence excited by eye safe laser radiation. Previous studies and calculations indicate that it should be possible to detect QD labeled bio-taggants at altitudes of 100 m and greater. Phase I work will demonstrate the feasibility of such a system, and determine the limits of detection in terms of distance and the surface concentration of the taggants on targets. Phase II studies will result in the demonstration of a prototype system ready for commercialization.