Qian X., Tabacco M.B.
Smiths Detection, US
Keywords: biological warfare, dendrimer, detection, Fluorescence, reverse micelle, sensor
Smiths Detection has been developing semi-selective optical biosensors for the direct airborne detection of the four primary classes of biological warfare agent: bacteria, bacterial spores, toxins and viruses. The sensors have good sensitivity and selectivity. However, sensors performance and lifetimes are affected by weak mechanical strength and other environmental effects. In this work, we report an unique sensor configuration that uses nanoparticle dendrimers as carrier and support for activie chemistry. The nanoparticle assembly was in turn encapsulated in a reverse micelle structure. As a result, a contunuous, dry sensing film were developed and the sensors demonstrated high sensitivity, selectivity and immunity to interferent. The operational lifetime of the sensors improved dramatically from hours to days. Storage stability of the sensors are also improved. We believe this is the first report of using dendrimer-assisted reverse micelle systems in a dry sensor film for detection of airborne biological agents
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 2, Technical Proceedings of the 2006 NSTI Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 2
Published: May 7, 2006
Pages: 162 - 165
Industry sectors: Medical & Biotech | Sensors, MEMS, Electronics
Topics: Chemical, Physical & Bio-Sensors, Diagnostics & Bioimaging
ISBN: 0-9767985-7-3