Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensor for Radionuclides

75948-It is important to determine the fate and transport of contaminants generated from past weapons production and from current energy production activities. In support of this goal, this project will develop technology for the highly sensitive real-time detection of radionuclides in the subsurface under field conditions. The approach relies on surface plasmon resonance for detection, and incorporates an innovative multi-cell approach for enhanced selectivity and sensitivity. Phase I will demonstrate the viability of the detection method and characterize the performance of a prototype system. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: Surface plasmon resonance is a highly versatile sensor platform that can be tailored for specific analytes. Therefore, the system should be able to be adapted for numerous applications, including the identification of environmental contaminants, monitoring industrial release, and chemical sensing related to defense and security applications.