Field Chemical Analysis Tool

The purpose of this Phase I effort is to demonstrate the feasibility of using an integrated field portable instrument for field chemical analysis. Currently, no fieldable chemical analysis technology is available that can provide real-time monitoring of hazardous compounds in complex samples such as ambient air. The proposed field-portable integrated SPME sampling, flash GC, miniature mass spectrometer (MMS) will meet this operational need. The performance and capabilities of the MMS instrument will be best in class by providing a level of selectivity that is unmatched by current fieldable mass spectrometers or ion mobility spectrometers. Development of this system will transform traditional sample-to-lab analysis to lab-to-sample analysis. This concept will provide high-end chemical analysis in the field with the potential to save lives and provide a competitive advantage to U.S. armed forces. The performance specifications of this instrument will be demonstrated in Phase I and a full prototype will be developed during Phase II. The instrument that will be developed as part of this Phase I effort will be able to detect chemical warfare agents in the field, but will also find use in Homeland Security, customs monitoring, airport screening, and environmental protection.