Anti-Terrorism - Consequence Management and Recovery

The threat of terrorist or military attack using biological, chemical or radiological weapons is one of the largest concerns to U.S. military forces. Development of defense initiatives that can be implemented to neutralize agents and decontaminatepersonnel, equipment and buildings are required to counter the potentially catastrophic effects of such an attack. A family of biocides has been identified that possesses potent antimicrobial activity. These materials are more than 100 times more effectiveat killing E.coli than a comparable amount of free quaternary ammonium compound. We propose to perform further modifications not only to enhance antimicrobial activity, but also to provide neutralization of chemical agents.The goal of the proposed work is to develop these biocides into systems that can be used to neutralize agents and decontaminate sea-going vessels following an attack. Compounds will be synthesized, characterized and tested for antimicrobial activity andneutralization of chemical agents. Optionally, we will explore the performance of cheaper alternative raw materials. In Phase II, we plan to develop neutralization and decontamination solutions, conduct hazard and toxicity testing, and immobilize thecompounds to polymers, enhancing utility in pre-event installation measures as well as post-event decontamination. Successful development of these materials will provide a stable, broad spectrum agent for the neutralization and decontamination of biological and chemical warfare agents. Decontamination of radiological materials is also expected. Additionally, usefulmaterials can be produced by grafting the compounds to polymers. These agents could be used both to protect personnel and installations in the event of exposure, and as decontamination agents during clean-up. These materials are not expected to causesevere damage to materials of construction of buildings, equipment etc. unlike current neutralization and decontamination agents. The ability to use these materials in a number of forms will allow their use as air filters, solutions, aerosols, garments,ointments, water purification etc. More broadly, compounds and materials displaying biocidal activity will have commercial applicability to private sectors, including healthcare, and applications where prevention of biofilms is desired. Polymers containingthese biocidal agents will have utility wherever prevention of bacterial adhesion and colonization is required, e.g. protective clothing, food preparation areas, medical devices, air filtration systems, waterlines, etc.