CONTENTS

• INTRODUCTION
• HOW TO USE WMD DETECTOR SELECTOR
• THE GLOBAL CBRN DETECTOR MARKET SURVEY
• THE FOUR SCENARIOS OF USE
  • Field/Man portable
  • Mobile laboratory/ Field laboratory
  • Diagnostic laboratory/Point of care
  • High sensitivity, high-throughput analytical laboratory
• THE EVALUATION PROCESS
• EVALUATION OF DETECTION TECHNOLOGIES
• SCENARIO WEIGHT DISTRIBUTIONS

FOUR SCENARIOS OF USE

In order to capture the usefulness of each technology, four scenarios of use were devised: Field/Man portable; Mobile laboratory/Field laboratory; Diagnostic laboratory/Point of care; and High sensitivity, high throughput analytical laboratory. The four scenarios are designed to summarize the entire spectrum of detector and diagnostic utilization. Employing this approach, the Global CBRN Detector Market Survey can more accurately describe the usefulness of each system based on its specific characteristics.

FIELD/MAN PORTABLE

Field use detection technologies are typically used by CBRN defense and force health protection Warfighters or scientists conducting analyses. These technologies are used outdoors in a variety of environments (e.g., desert, forest, plains, urban) and subjected to various environmental conditions (e.g., heat, cold, humidity). Ideally, they are small, lightweight, and easy to carry; simple to operate; and should not require other machinery such as centrifuges or heat blocks. Kits or devices with limited electrical requirements are preferred. These devices can be disposable with a single use only or reusable with minimal cleaning. Signature is important in the operation of these devices or systems, as large ventilation systems or protective gear could jeopardize covert operations. Field use devices can have a narrow range of detectable agents, (i.e., can be specific for one particular target) because several different devices may be deployed on a mission.

MOBILE LABORATORY/FIELD LABORATORY

Mobile and field laboratory detection technologies are located in mobile laboratories. They are likely semi-automated or integrated into a system that is capable of a higher throughput of samples (e.g., 20-30 samples at a time). Some additional equipment such as centrifuges and vortexes can be used during operation, although smaller systems are preferred. Size is a concern with mobile laboratory components because space is limited and the detection device or system is likely only one component of the laboratory. A mobile laboratory ideally can operate for a longer period of time than a field use item; therefore, consumables and manpower are a concern. Signature is somewhat important for the mobile laboratory, as extensive safety precautions could hinder the mobility and camouflage of the mobile laboratory. Detection of a wide range of agents is preferable in a mobile laboratory detection device or system.

DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY/POINT OF CARE

The diagnostic laboratory or point of care use scenario includes both brick and mortar laboratories, as well as non-laboratory spaces such as a physician office or clinic. The ability to obtain Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval and 510k clearance were weighted heavily to emphasize diagnostic capability. The device or system must be able to detect agents from blood, tissue, cultured cells, and other typical samples. Logistical or operational concerns, such as size, weight, signature, transportation, additional equipment, and consumables were not considered essential for this scenario; however, logistics is important in moving point of care use forward in the Combat Health Support system. Ideally, the diagnostic laboratory or point of care detection technologies can detect biological agents from all encountered samples with a consistently high level of specificity and sensitivity.

HIGH SENSITIVITY, HIGH THROUGHPUT ANALYTICAL LABORATORY

Analytical laboratory detection technologies are typically located in a brick and mortar building, such as a hospital or laboratory. They should be fully automated devices capable of high throughput of samples. An ideal detection device can detect a variety of agents quickly, have a high level of sensitivity, and is easy to operate. Because of the location of the system, device characteristics such as signature, additional equipment, and electrical requirements are of less concern. The device should be easily maintained with regularly scheduled maintenance and be relatively easy for a medical staff to operate.