Nanomaterials for Low-Cost Electromagnetic Field Alarms

The development of small, lightweight, and low cost electromagnetic overexposure alarms is needed for numerous military and commercial applications involving high intensity electromagnetic fields (EMF). Exposure to high intensity EMF can cause deleteriouseffects within humans including: altering cell growth rate; decreasing the rate of cellular respiration; altering metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and nucleic acids; effecting gene expression and genetic regulation of cell functions; and numerousother degenerative consequences. Current devices to monitor EMF exposure are prohibitively expensive and not suited for field measurements on individuals. For the Phase I program, Luna Innovations proposes to utilize conductive nanomaterials forfabrication of low cost EMF alarms for use by the Department of Defense. Initial work will focus on the development of EMF sensing components utilizing different nanoscale and thin film technologies. Ionic self assembled films and carbon nanostructureswill be combined to fabricate nanoscale antennas, loop detectors, and storage devices for quantification of electromagnetic fields. Due to the size and structure of the EMF sensing nanomaterials, the sensors can be tailored to optimize sensitivity,operating frequencies, and performance.The proposed sensor technology has immediate use for measurement of high intensity electromagnetic fields in military, power, and medical applications. The nanotechnology components will have additional applicationin the development of thin film batteries, photovoltaics, flexible displays, and advanced medical imaging technology. The technology demonstrated during the proposed Phase I program will allow Luna to capture a significant share of the initial targetmarket segment through Luna's proven ability to transfer products from research to market.