High Resolution, Low Cost Small Animal PET Imager

65685 A deeper understanding of microbial processes and their physiological status in various soils and pore structures is needed in order to optimize bioremediation process. However, it is difficult to determine the influence of physical and/or geochemical forces on the efficiency of bioremediation processes at the pore-scale (i.e. 10 micron and smaller) because of a lack of high-spatial-resolution instrumentation. This project will develop new optical technology for the detection of bioactivity at the pore-scale by the use of CO2 sensing nanospheres. The system will be demonstrated first in laboratory experiments using soil columns and then in conjunction with a field deployable probe such as a cone penetrometer. Phase I will include the synthesis of a unique CO2 indicator and the characterization of this compound in polymeric films and nanospheres. Data will be collected to determine sensitivity, stability, and selectivity using phase-sensitive fluorescence lifetime detection. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: In addition to its use in bioremediation research, the proposed CO2-sensing technology should address a need for an improved CO2 sensor in several biotechnological and industrial applications involving fermentation, cell culture, as well as food and beverages.