Inexpensive, Field-Portable, Rugged, Voltammetric Sensors Based on Functionalized Microporous Membranes, with ppb Sensitivity, Multi-Analyte Discrimination, Microchip Controller and Network-Connected Android Phone Control

The government/DoD have a strong need for analysis of environmental pollutants directly in field soil/water, including metal ions, munitions residues, hydrocarbons, PCBs/PFOSs/PFOAs. Current methods, e.g. transport of samples to labs/trailers, or expensive ($7K-$35K), bulky (5kg-20kg) “portable” field instruments, are inadequate. In recent work, this firm has developed unique, field-portable, handheld, lightweight (<0.5kg), inexpensive (<$0.5K), rapid-response (<50s, objective <40s), low-power (10 microW/cm^2, +/-2VDC), self-calibrating, non-fouling. sensing technology, based on voltammetric electrochemical sensing. It’s functionalized to specific analytes, yielding “fingerprint” discrimination of analytes (like an IR spectrum). Other features: (1) 3 modules: (i) Android (phone/tablet) control interface (50g, ~$250). (ii) Microcontroller (2cmX2cmX1cm, 200g incl. battery, $220, Bluetooth/hardwire interface to Android). (iii) Disposable physical sensor (2.5cmDiameterX6cmH, <$2). (2) Amenable to facile manufacture using COTS parts. Prior work demonstrated successful sensing of above analytes at targeted detection limits, an advanced Graphical User Interface (GUI), and field-compatible packaging. Proposed work will: (1) Extend to all other analytes of interest and, where needed, further lower detection limits. (2) Refine data processing algorithms for precise analyte ID/quantitation with interferents/other analytes. (3) Further refine GUI. (4) Demonstrate secure networking/Bluetooth connection. (5) Obtain all regulatory certifications. (6) Explore DoD/commercial customers. (7) Initiate steps for deployment by Army/DoD.