Keeping the Air Clean and Safe—An Anthrax Smoke Detector

About this technology

Overview

The Anthrax Smoke Detector (ASD) combines a bioaerosol capture device with a simple analysis method, a robust chemical test for bacterial spores. Airborne particles are drawn to the machine through a fan, captured, and then tested for weaponized anthrax. In addition to its simplicity, the unit has a host of other benefits. It is a long-term solution that runs continuously with little maintenance. It requires very little in the way of operating costs, and has a high reliability factor, with low susceptibility to false alarms. The average unit is just about the size of a computer terminal and weighs less than 50 pounds. The unit consists of an air sampler, a continuous glass fiber tape for capturing spores, a motorized heating element to lyse spores, a syringe pump to deliver the reagent, and a spectrometer to detect luminescence. UDT has already sold these units around the world. Sartec Saras Technologie is its exclusive Italian distributor. Quantum Automation handles distribution for Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. On the home front, Securewrap is making plans to install the ASD at its facility at the Miami International Airport, one of the busiest in the country and a major hub of international cargo shipments. UDT is also working with major hotels, Las Vegas casinos, and convention centers. The company is also in discussion with the U.S. State Department to get the ASD in to mail rooms at embassies overseas, and has presented the technology to the United States Postal Service.