Los Alamos National Laboratory November Tip Sheet
MICROSENSOR FOR MAJOR MUNITIONS
Molecular engineering at Los Alamos led to a compact, inexpensive microsensor that can detect faint traces of chemical weapons agents or the explosives in land mines. Los Alamos researchers modified several different molecules so one part of the molecule anchored itself directly to a detector and another part extended as a trap tailored to nab specific chemicals. More robust and more sensitive than any commercially available sensor, the microsensor identifies volatile organic compounds in air or water -- in some cases at concentrations of less than parts per billion. An R&D 100 Award winner in 1995, the microsensor is compatible with current silicon technology, so it can be integrated on a small semiconductor microchip and fabricated into an array of multiple microsensors that could quickly identify multiple toxins.
BIOHAZARD DETECTIVES
Los Alamos' environmental molecular biology group applies the genetic research method called Polymerase Chain Reaction, or PCR, to identify pathogens and their remnants in medical samples. Further development of PCR technology will provide thorough and rapid analysis of forensic, environmental, veterinary and medical samples. Methods that detect specific microbial species have been extended to identify subtle differences in bacterial and viral strains of the same species through detection of changes in DNA chain length and sequence. Los Alamos' ability to accurately and quickly identify variations in samples of an organism provides essential information to guide a response to outbreaks of pathogens, whether natural or induced. Precision identification of strains also is important for the development of vaccines.
SOUNDS LIKE TROUBLE
A Los Alamos instrument that uses acoustic signals can accurately identify within 20 seconds suspicious liquids or other contents of sealed containers. The Swept Frequency Acoustic Interferometer can noninvasively identify any chemical warfare agent inside sealed munitions, industrial containers or pipes. The detector uses very low power, so it is safe for analyzing sensitive chemicals such as explosives. It accurately characterizes samples ranging from a single drop of liquid to the contents of a railroad tanker car. The container can be metal, plastic, glass or other materials. The detector is small and portable and can be used by nonspecialists under rugged field conditions.
MODELS PLOT POISON PATHWAYS
Computer models are under development at Los Alamos that can calculate the dispersion pathways and ultimate fate of chemical or biological agents released in an urban setting. Based on size and category of buildings, wind speed and direction, and other parameters, the models will map the course and density of a toxic cloud through an urban setting. Other scenarios include a release in a subway system, reminiscent of the Tokyo sarin gas attack. Estimates also can be made of how toxic agents may infiltrate or exit a building and where they will deposit on the ground and other surfaces. As these models are refined, they can be used for planning against an attack on likely target sites or high-visibility events. When such an incident does occur, the models can assist with directing emergency response. Following an incident, the models will help emergency workers more accurately map and analyze the affected site.
TAKING IT TO THE FIELD
The Laboratory has developed a lightweight, compact version of an instrument that can rapidly analyze single bacterial cells, viruses and toxins. The U.S. Army commissioned the miniature flow cytometer for deployment on the battlefield -- to detect biological weapons attacks. Flow cytometry is the measurement of single cells or subcellular particles as they flow through a laser beam. Laser light excites a fluorescent dye added to sample cells and the emitted light signals are detected and analyzed. Invented at Los Alamos, flow cytometers are now common tools in medical and research laboratories. The device can quickly identify a range of biological threat organisms. In a collaboration with an industrial partner, Los Alamos has designed and built rugged flow cytometers with miniaturized electronics and improved optics that allow a scaled-down design with higher sensitivity and greater speed than previously possible.
SENSORS FOR REMOTE DETECTION
For decades, Los Alamos has been at the forefront of remote sensing technology. Research continues on sensors and the computer algorithms necessary to read thermal and chemical signatures observable from aircraft, satellites or from the ground. Solids, liquids and gases can be identified and many can be measured by known optical and infrared signals. Los Alamos has special expertise in calculating how the atmosphere modifies a spectral signal and detecting subtle signatures with precision measurements. Beside defense applications, remote sensing technology is valuable for environmental studies, including analysis of crop yields, water resources, areas of deforestation and pollution from industry.
For more information call Gary Kliewer at 505-665-2085 or call Los Alamos' Public Information Group at 505-667-7000
Additional information can be found at: http://www.lanl.gov/Internal/programs/DoD/fas/fas_dbs.html
11/97
RSS