Development of an Integrated Personal BioDetector

"Presently, there is no way to rapidly detect exposure to sub-clinical levels of biological pathogens or chemical toxins until effects are seen in the victim. Echo Technologies, Inc. proposes to develop an integrated biosampler/biosensor device that it canbe used to monitor personal exposure to biological material. ETI is developing optical sensors for detection of Biological Warfare Agents and other pathogens. These generic sensors distinguish and quantify classes of biological material, and candiscriminate live/dead bacteria. ETI proposes to team with MesoSystems, Inc., a leader in development of bioaerosol samplers for collection of biological organisms. In Phase I the enabling technology will be developed to integrate the sensors withcollection disks used in the biosampler. This involves sensor formulation and deposition changes. Sensor robustness will be tested using a Rotating Arm Collector. Designs for an integrated system incorporating biosampling, biosensing, and real-timedetection will be developed. Preliminary specifications for system capability will also be presented as a deliverable for Phase I. In Phase II a prototype Integrated Personal BioDetector (IPBD) will be fabricated and evaluated in the laboratory and at anextramural test facility. The prototype IPBD will be configured for use on an individual's backpack or similar location. The proposed biodetection device can be used by military personnel, first re