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Accurate Reliable Portable and Rapid Methods And Technologies for DetectIon of GHB Substances and Prevention Against Different Forms of VioLence and AssauLt SuppOrted by These Drugs

Project description

Rapid detection of GHB for safer investigations

Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is a common substance used in drug-facilitated crimes, yet it is notoriously hard to detect due to its rapid breakdown in the body. Current detection methods are often slow, complex, and not always reliable on-site. This delay in identifying GHB complicates law enforcement efforts, leaving victims vulnerable and compromising evidence. The need for faster, more accurate detection methods is critical to combating these crimes effectively. In this context, the EU-funded ARMADILLO project will develop a portable toolset that rapidly detects GHB in urine, saliva, and beverages. By combining optical spectroscopy and electrochemical techniques, it enables precise on-site detection, enhances forensic evidence collection, and aids in preventing drug-facilitated violence.

Objective

ARMADILLO aims to equip Law Enforcement Authorities (LEAs) and more particularly, Police Authorities and Forensic Institutes, with a holistic, ground-breaking, easy-to-use, portable toolset that rapidly detects GHB concentrations in urine, saliva and beverages. To realize this, the project will focus on the design and development of in-situ GHB detection systems, integrating advanced optical spectroscopy and electrochemical techniques for precise GHB identification in the different matrices. Both optical and electrochemical detection techniques will be integrated to portable readers capable of quantitative GHB on-site determination. The optical spectroscopy techniques will explore surface-enhanced signal-based approaches (Raman and fluorescence) alongside paper strip methods, while electrochemical detection will combine a specialized fluidics module and NAD/NADH electrodes. In parallel, GHB-specific antibodies will be developed aiming to further enhance its detection selectivity and accuracy. The project will prioritize the enhanced collection and sharing of forensic evidence, emphasizing on forensics' data management and ensuring interoperability and harmonization across systems. By integrating data fusion mechanisms, it will provide reliable, safe, and court-proof forensic evidence, while also leveraging the potential of AI for refined Raman analysis. Concurrently, it will undertake a comprehensive risk assessment to bolster prevention strategies against drug-facilitated violence and assault, all while standardizing user interfaces and employing advanced visualization and reporting techniques. In order to avoid clinical trials and comply with the ethical considerations including the privacy and safety of any involved human subject, ARMADILLO will assess the accuracy, sensitivity and specificity of its sensing technologies using synthetic samples that simulate a wide range of GHB concentrations in urine and saliva samples.

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Programme(s)

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Topic(s)

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HORIZON-IA - HORIZON Innovation Actions

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Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

(opens in new window) HORIZON-CL3-2023-FCT-01

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Coordinator

"NATIONAL CENTER FOR SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH ""DEMOKRITOS"""
Net EU contribution

Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.

€ 654 375,00
Address
END OF PATRIARCHOU GRIGORIOU E AND 27 NEAPOLEOS STREET
15 341 AGIA PARASKEVI
Greece

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Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

€ 654 375,00

Participants (15)

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