SBIR/STTR Phase I:Urea sensing biocatalytic polymers

This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)Phase Iproject proposes to develop a urea sensor using enzyme polyurethane polymers. The product concept is inexpensive, very easy to use and requires no additional analytical equipment or electricity. The strict specificity of the enzymes used in its formulation will provide the sensor with high precision in detecting urea and should limit false positive and negative signals. Sampling of surfaces and solutions will require only 1 simple step, limiting the potential for user error. Finally, rapid response times, on the order of a few minutes, will correspond well with the target applications of the sensor. The commercial applications of this project will be in the area of regulatory testing linked to the food service industry and health care establishments. Because improper cleaning practices of restrooms can lead to bacterial contamination, the use of urea-detecting sensors in hospital bathroom facilities may aid in reducing patient infection rates.