Nano-Enabled Sampling for SERS-Based Trace Explosive Detection

In Phase I, Agiltron has successfully demonstrated the feasibility of the proposed Surface-enhanced Raman Scattering sampling chip and cell design utilizing a permeable/porous polymer matrix embedded with multi-layered gold nano-particles. The approach leverages the leading-edge micro-optical component development and manufacturing technology of Agiltron and extensive experience in nano-material engineering within the research group headed by Prof. Vladimir V. Tsukruk at Iowa State University. Our novel sensor chip features high detection sensitivity, fast data collection, and reproducibility that are not yet attainable. The proposed sampling cell can be designed to be compatible with existing commercial Raman probes, thereby enabling much higher detection speed and sensitivity than is available from current state of the art Raman detection, making portable Raman trace detection of explosives a reality. This proposed Raman system is extraordinarily well suited for trace detection of explosives, and other chemical and biological agents, toxic species, and biological species as well. In Phase II, Agiltron will continue development toward mass production and commercialization of these devices for trace explosive detection. The Phase II effort also includes sampling module integration with existing commercial portable/handheld Raman systems for sensitivity enhanced detection, field deployment demonstration, and rapid commercialization.