Microsensor for the Detection of Humans in Cargo Shipping Containers

Technical Abstract: GINER, Inc. proposes to design, develop and demonstrate a low-power consuming, screen-printed, thick-film electrochemical, carbon dioxide (CO2) and oxygen (O2) microsensor module that combines simultaneous real time detection of CO2 and O2 in one substrate and demonstrate its successful operation for the detection of humans hiding in cargo shipping containers. The microsensor module will be designed for independent operation, complete with its own battery power source, yet the design will incorporate the necessary features and maintain enough flexibility to be integrated into the Advanced Container Security Device (ACSD) that is now being developed for the department of homeland security (DHS). The feasibility of the proposed microsensor will be demonstrated at the end of Phase I. Anticipated Benefits/Potential Commercial Applications: The proposed screen-printed, thick-film electrochemical microsensor will be an important tool in the hands of law enforcement agencies for the reliable detection of stowaways in cargo shipping containers. A small, reliable, low-power-consuming, long life and inexpensive cargo shipping container monitor could prevent illegal transportation of humans and make our nation safer without burdening the law enforcement agencies or the shipping industry with increases in shipping costs.