SBIR-STTR Award

This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I Project proposes to develop a real-time anthrax (Bacillus anthracis) detector for mail-sorting systems. The proposed analyzer would allow detecting, identifying and removing anthrax laden letters in a mail-sorting machine prior to distribution. The Phase I Project will focus on improving sensitivity so that 1000 spores can be detected in 10 seconds. The folow on Phase II Project will develop a prototype anthrax detector for testing in mail sorting facilities. Successful completion of the proposed project will result in a tool that will decrease the threat of widespread anthrax infection and increase homeland security. The commercial applications of this project are self evident. The proposed analyzer wil be of immediate use at the US Military Postal Service Agency, at the US postal office, at private postal services, as well as in large office buildings and corporations that employ their own internal mailing office centers. Modifications to the system would also allow rapid detection of chemical agents in glass or plastic containers at ports of entry (e.g. at airports).

This Small Business Innovation Research Phase II project will develop two prototype anthrax detector systems designed to screen mail entering a postal facility and/or to identify and to stop distribution of anthrax containing mail as it passes through a sorter. These systems will be able to detect 2 micrograms of spores captured from a letter containing as little as 100 micrograms, as well as similar concentrations on contaminated surfaces. The Phase I project demonstrated feasibility by successfully developing a vacuum/filter collection system that captured Bacillus cereus spores from an envelope passing through a mail sorter, which were detected by Raman spectroscopy. Some 23 micrograms of B. cereus spores were measured in 9 seconds using 1064 nm excitation, with an estimated limit of detection of 10 micrograms or 1 million spores in 10 seconds. The Phase II project will complete the design of the anthrax detector system, with improved sensitivity nd selectivity.