Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC) recently announced that it has developed a device known as SmartCAR that uses colorimetric assay to identify such dangerous chemical compounds as anthrax, ricin and plague.
“Although much of the technology in SmartCAR is commercial off-the-shelf, it is a real innovation because it is a handheld field-ready device that not only determines exposure, but provides its own data management and distribution,” Patricia Buckley, an ECBC research scientist on the SmartCAR development team, said.
What is unique about SmartCAR is the device’s ability to connect with the internet via Nett Warrior, which is then able to transmit results onto a device as common as a smartphone app.
“It is exciting to be able to work on something that will actually go out into the field and help Soldiers safely accomplish their mission,” Buckley said. “With more time and funding, SmartCAR will be used in more and more settings, such as relief missions and even hospitals.”
SmartCAR uses assay strips to identify biological materials, but it is also capable of examining field samples. The device also has civilian application and is able to conduct water tests.
“A combined chemical biological detection device that small, that automated, and that wide-ranging could put an incredible amount of chemical biological data literally in the palm of your hand,” Buckley said. “The applications for military and civilian organizations safeguarding the public would be nearly limitless.”