Project description
Handheld device to detect chemical hazards anywhere
Rapid detection and identification of chemical hazards can save lives. Targeting chemical hazards at low concentrations in gas and liquid phase and in various environments, the EU-funded SERSing project will develop microdevices that can be integrated in low-weight handheld Raman equipment. Designed for first responders, this reliable and ultrasensitive lab-on-chip technology is based on surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). It can also be customised to combine communication and geolocation technologies. The project will also enable the miniaturised platform to be mounted on robotic units that can be deployed at dangerous incident scenes.
Objective
The ultimate goal of SERSing is to enable fast detection and unequivocal identification of chemical hazards at low concentrations in gas and liquid phase, in multiple environments. The geo-located acquired data are submitted to an on-line learning platform and processed, transmitting threats and hazard data to authorized personnel and generating alerts on the incident scene in real time.
The innovative microdevices for detection and identification are integrated in low weight hand-held Raman equipment, specifically customized to overcome the common operational limitations of first responders, compatible with Personnel Protective Equipment PPE and respirators, easy to use and maintain with low cost of consumables. The robust, reliable, ultrasensitive lab on chips (LoCs) for on-site detection of chemical threats in gas and liquids are based on Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS). The customized Raman spectrometer will combine geo-location and communication technologies specifically adapted for the rapid screening of the incident scene. This miniaturized platform could be also mounted on robotic units to inform operational command on possible chemical agents in preparation of entering the incident scene where the deployment of personnel is difficult.
These SERS LoCs and the adapted Raman are also envisioned as complimentary forensics tools and technologies that can be used: i) “on scene” to determine the chemical nature of a sample in order to collect it for further laboratory analysis or dismiss it; or ii) “in a laboratory environment” for profiling chemical agents released at an incident and to identify signatures for improved attribution.
Fields of science
Programme(s)
Funding Scheme
RIA - Research and Innovation actionCoordinator
2450 Kobenhavn
Denmark
The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.