LaserScan Analyzer | Block Engineering, LLC

General Description
The LaserScan Analyzer is a handheld, battery-operated device that is capable of detecting surface contamination, due to the presence of chemical threats, within seconds and in a standoff mode. The system utilizes Quantum Cascade Lasers (QCLs) with the widest tuning range available today, covering the 6-12 microns infrared spectrum, and offers the chemical identification through the use of infrared spectroscopy. The current device, developed under funding from JIEDDO, Army SBIR and Congressional Adds, is capable of detecting trace explosives in the 1-10 micrograms/sq. cm from approximately 6-12 inches standoff distance. Longer distances could also be achieved with properly sized optics. The system has built-in libraries to detect and identify the explosives of interest and has been tested with numerous backgrounds and surfaces. A built-in LCD displays the identified chemical as well as the actual infrared spectrum, if needed. Furthermore, the same device, but with a different software package could be used for the detection of Chemical Warfare Agents (CWAs) and Toxic Industrial Chemicals (TICs) as Low Volatility Contaminants on surfaces. The system is currently at TRL6 or TRL7 levels. Alternative configurations include built-in gas and vapor detection capability, enabling the potential for LaserScan to detect both surface contaminations in standoff, as well as gases and vapors by collecting air samples. Infrared spectroscopy is also capable of detecting pathogens and other biological threats and feasibility has been demonstrated by several groups. LaserScan could potentially be able to identify such threats by developing appropriately prepared samples and software algorithms.

Technical Description
The technology behind the operation of the LaserScan Analyzer is laser-based infrared spectroscopy. A Quantum Cascade Laser (QCL) in an External Cavity Configuration is used to tune across the infrared spectrum of 6-12 microns within a few seconds. A built-in infrared detector is used to collect the reflection of the infrared laser light as it bounces off the target and sophisticated, built-in, ultra-fast electronics generate an infrared spectrum of the chemical substance that was found on the target. High-speed, embedded software algorithms compare this spectrum to built-in infrared libraries and provide real-time identification of the chemical.

Evaluation Criteria

THROUGHPUT:

2 minutes or less for detection
1 sample, single test/sample per run
749-350 samples every 2 hours
The system could easily be adapted into a fully automated system
Device or system is intended for multiple detection assays
0-1 solutions, buffer, eluents, and/or reagents
0 components
Less than 5 minutes is required for set-up
Automatic detection

LOGISTICS:

Very brief (minutes-hours) training and minimal technical skills
Approximately the size of a toaster
Between 1 and 5 kg
Wireless and wired connections are available
System or device uses batteries
4-8 hours battery life

OPERATIONS:

Can be used from 4°C to 37°C
Performance is not influenced by relative humidity
3-5 years expected life
Results can be viewed in real-time
The system could be adapted to a fully autonomous system with some effort
The system software is closed and not available for modification
The system hardware is closed and not available for modification

DETECTION:

Possible the system could receive 510K clearance, no current efforts at this time
Possible the system could receive FDA approval, no current efforts at this time
Less than 10 µL
Excellent specificity. System has occasional false alarms under certain conditions (<2%)
1x10-4-1x10-3 mg/m3
1 ppb-1 ppm
System currently can identify aerosolized chemical agent
System currently can identify liquid chemical agent