Field Chemical Analysis Tool

An effective field chemical analysis tool (FCAT) that meets criteria for portability, selectivity, and sensitivity is described. The FCAT consists of a solid phase microextraction (SPME) needle trap for sample collection and preparation, flashchromatography for compound separation, and mass spectrometry for definitive identification. The FCAT will incorporate state of the art fuel cell technology for portable power, geographic positioning systems for the identification of the samplinglocations and satellite-based wireless devices for data transmission. Options for sample collection for various media such as air, soil, and water are discussed along with specific applications, which will include toxic compounds, industrial chemicals,and chemical warfare agents. The tool that will be developed will have a variety of civil and military applications ranging from environmental site assessment, industrial hygiene testing, screening at mass transportation interfaces and in homelandsecurity monitoring.