Multiplex Agent/Chemical Identification Detector

To address the Chemical and Biological Defense Program’s (CBDP’s) need for a detector that can sensitively and rapidly detect multiplex chemical warfare agents (CWAs), Intellisense Systems, Inc. (Intellisense) proposes to develop a new Multiplex Agent/Chemical Identification Detector (MAGNIFI) based on the combination of an infrared cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS) technique and advanced artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) algorithms. Specifically, the innovative design of the stable multi-pass CRDS optical cavity and the use of miniaturized commercial off-the-shelf components significantly reduces the cavity size. The novel system design using AI/ML algorithms based on deep learning tools in an automated processing workflow and fast optical components enables rapid detection and identification of chemical threats with low false alarm. As a result, MAGNIFI will be a portable CRDS-based sensor platform for multiplex detection and identification of CWAs and toxic industrial compounds (TICs) in vapor and aerosol phases, directly addressing the CBDP requirements. In Phase I, Intellisense will design and develop a breadboard device to demonstrate the feasibility of MAGNIFI technology. We will perform modeling and Zemax simulation to identify the optimized geometry. We will build a proof-of-concept breadboard device and establish any logistics requirements for prototyping. The initial prototype will be tested against two CWA simulants at room temperature and relative humidity (RH) of 50%. We will evaluate the preliminary sensing performance, such as limit of detection (LOD), dynamic range, time to clear down, and response time from analyte exposure to signal acquisition. We expect the proposed system to provide sensitive detection and identification of analytes, meeting or exceeding the CBDP’s requirements. In Phase II, Intellisense plans to refine and optimize the designs and AI/ML algorithms based on the experimental results in Phase I. We will develop custom electronics and mechanical packaging to build a Phase II prototype. The MAGNIFI prototype will be tested against multiple CWAs, simulants, and TICs in an approved surety laboratory across at least two different temperatures and RH levels using laboratory methods for validation and assessment of instrumentation. From the experiments, the sensitivity or LOD for each listed compound will be established. A user assessment will be conducted to identify areas for general improvements. We anticipate that at the end of Phase II, MAGNIFI will be ready to transition to the CBDP and the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Chemical Biological Center.