Nanoelectrokinetic, Label-free Sensor for Toxic Industrial Chemical Detection

We propose to develop a novel nanofluidic, label-free sensor to detect the presence of ultra-low levels of Toxic Industrial Chemicals (TICs) in aqueous environmental samples. The envisioned handheld sensor will be hand-portable, be ruggedly constructed, support remote operation and be UAV-mountable. Our sensor exploits novel features of AC electrokinetics, made possible only when the channel dimensions approach the nanoscale, to detect signatures of TICs in aqueous solution, rapidly and with very high sensitivity. Equally significantly, the label-free approach developed here eliminates critical difficulties associated with reagent logistics and stability. In Phase I, guided by physics-based simulations, we will develop the design of the basic nanosensor element. The design will conform to specifications that are amenable to mass-production-friendly lithographic techniques. The designed nanochannel sensors will be fabricated using US Army AMRDEC facilities. The prototype sensor will be challenged with common hazardous chemicals and the overall sensor response will be characterized. In Phase II, the nanofluidic sensor will be optimized to increase sensitivity. Response to array of other common toxic chemicals will be verified. Finally, the sensor will be integrated with other sample handling components (currently under development at CFDRC) and control/transmission electronics to form a hand-portable or UAV-deployable Toxic Industrial Chemical detector.