Wearable Detector for Aerosolized Chemical Threats

The government is seeking innovative technologies to detect aerosolized chemical threats, such as Chemical Warfare Agents (CWAs), Toxic Industrial Chemicals/Materials (TICs/TIMs), and Pharmaceutical-Based Agents (PBAs) in the field. This detection technology would be used to detect multiple chemicals threats within a sample in a complex environmental background. Preferable technology would be a small, wearable, multi-threat chemical detector that can be employed by DHS emergency response and law enforcement personnel. The envisioned usage of this product would warn the user about current exposure levels to potential threats before they reach concentrations immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH). This allows the user to adopt a more protective posture through awareness of the contaminated area and allow for proper donning and doxing of personal protective equipment. Further uses may include incorporation on Unmanned Ground Vehicle or Aerial Systems (UGV, UAS) for remote detection and hazard plume mapping. Current CBRN response equipment does not provide a single continuous monitoring detection system to alert personnel to the presence of aerosolized airborne chemical threats and hazards. Lightweight chemical sampling and detection innovations which can be automated for such monitoring applications are desired. The technology is intended to be used by personnel investigating incidents or potential threats in indoor and outdoor environments, to include large open areas and small confined spaces. The device should alert a user to the presence of aerosolized hazards in time to take protective measures for the duration of a regular duty shift without requiring frequent user interaction with the device. The desired technology capabilities are listed below: The ability to detect multiple chemical threats in solid or liquid aerosol form. Approaches that can address more than one threat class (pharmaceutical, nerve, blister, TIC/TIM) will be prioritized. Detect anomalous chemical hazards distinct from common background aerosols as a threshold capability, with classification of threats as an objective capability Ability to add new chemicals of interest to the library The ability to operate in various operational environments such as at temperature and humidity extremes (50 C to -10 C temperatures; 5% to 95% relative humidity). Operate with multiple alarm settings (audible, visual, and vibratory) Detect threats at IDLH concentration levels as determined by NIOSH or OSHA Detection speed: objective <30 seconds threshold <1 minute Low-Size Weight and Power (SWaP), wearable form factor that does not pose a strain on operators o Size: The system should have a small and unobtrusive form factor, and should not exceed a volume of 500 cm3 o Weight: The system should not exceed 1 kg in weight o Power: The system must have a battery life of at least 4 hours, but an 8-hour minimum battery life is preferable. Approaches that use commercially available or rechargeable batteries are preferred. Low logistics burden: Minimal training, calibration, maintenance and charging requirements; no special tools needed for maintenance