Sandia has more than 20 years experience building chemical analysis and detection systems. One product of this work that has applications for homeland security is a handheld system that incorporates microfabricated components for handling, separating, and detecting chemical warfare agents and toxic industrial chemicals (TICs).
This system collects and concentrates samples, separates them via a miniaturized gas chromatography column, and rapidly detects the constituent components using an array of surface acoustic wave sensors.
As they improve, microanalytical systems promise to revolutionize a number of fields, including food processing, health care, and chemical and biological weapons defense.
Ongoing work is focused on:
For more information on Sandia’s work in this area, visit the Microanalytical technical information page.
