Sensitive, Fast-Acting Blister CWA-Disclosing Spray

Chemical warfare agents (CWAs) represent a group of extremely hazardous materials capable of myriad health effects ranging from irritation to burns, and even death. For instance, sulfur mustard (HD) can be absorbed through inhalation, ingestion, or skin/eye contact, and has a medial lethal dose (LD50) of 50 and 0.7 mg/kg for cutaneous and oral exposure, respectively. Further, HD can be disseminated as an aerosol or liquid, and its low vapor pressure and boiling point allow it to remain on a materialÆs surface for extended periods. As such, it is critical that the source and extent of CWA contamination be fully disclosed. To address this need, Luna Labs has developed a color-changing spray system capable of identifying sub microgram concentrations of CWAs on affected surfaces. The Phase I project will focus on the synthesis and down selection of HD-active chemical probes that will be incorporated into a practical spray system. The project will demonstrate the utility of Luna LabsÆ approach to visually identify CWA contamination and develop an integration strategy to transition the technology to the US military.pabilities to monitor and control core body cooling.