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Reagentless and Realtime Detection of Airborne Microorganisms

Award Information
Agency: Department of Defense
Branch: Office for Chemical and Biological Defense
Contract: W911SR-07-C-0031
Agency Tracking Number: C061-102-0073
Amount: $750,000.00
Phase: Phase II
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: CBD06-102
Solicitation Number: 2006.1
Timeline
Solicitation Year: 2006
Award Year: 2007
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): 2007-04-11
Award End Date (Contract End Date): 2008-04-11
Small Business Information
7607 Eastmark Drive, Suite 102
College Station, TX 77840
United States
DUNS: 184758308
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 Bikas Vaidya
 Research Scientist
 (979) 693-0017
 bikas.vaidya@lynntech.com
Business Contact
 G. Hitchens
Title: Vice President
Phone: (979) 693-0017
Email: duncan.hitchens@lynntech.com
Research Institution
N/A
Abstract

Biological weapons are among the most serious threats facing the United States defense forces, today. Currently available bioaerosol sampling systems and cassettes require both sample preparation and a well equipped laboratory for analysis. Other detection methods rely on fragile bio-molecules for recognition of the target analyte. These systems are not suitable for onsite analysis. Infrared spectroscopy has been the staple of remote chemical and biological detection for years but it has not been linked, as of yet, with an effective and compact means of collecting and concentrating bioaerosols. Lynntech has developed an inexpensive but highly effective device which electrostatically precipitates airborne microorganisms directly onto an infrared waveguide. This collector will couple with a breakthrough miniature wedge-waveguide spectrometer developed by Foster-Miller for rapid detection and identification of biological targets. During this Phase II, Lynntech will collaborate with Foster-Miller to develop a self-contained air sampling system using electrostatic concentration to capture, detect, and identify biological warfare agents through infrared absorption. Efficiency, sensitivity, and specificity have already been demonstrated meeting or exceeding the goals for Phase I. In Phase II, Lynntech will develop and deliver an improved prototype system to the Army consisting of the electrostatic concentration and detection platforms.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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