Maine Perspective Front Page
UMaine Receives $10.3 Million for Sensor Research
The University of Maine has received a $10.3 million grant from the U.S. Navy to continue advanced research on sensors to detect chemical and biological agents.
The program's goal is to produce very small detectors that respond very quickly, and are much more sensitive and selective than are currently available from other sensor technologies. The sensors, which could be mass produced at low cost, could be used in a variety of applications to counter weapons of mass destruction.
"The ongoing controversy over the possible exposure of American soldiers to chemical and biological weapons during the Persian Gulf War demonstrates the need to address this growing threat to our military," according to U.S. Sen. Olympia Snowe, a member of the Senate Committee on Armed Services.
"This grant will help to research and develop sensors capable of detecting the presence of chemical or biological agents and launchers in any theater of battle," says Snowe. Under the terms of the grant, awarded by the Naval Surface Warfare Center, the University will conduct sensor research over the next two years, concluding in February 2001.
Work will be performed by faculty, staff, graduate students, and undergraduates in the Laboratory for Surface Science & Technology and a private sector partner, Sensor Research & Development Corporation (SRD) of Orono. Researchers are studying the ability of thin metal oxide and polymer films to detect pathogens and toxic chemicals by carrying out experiments using non-toxic simulant target molecules. After various stages of development, prototype sensors are sent to military facilities for testing against live agents.
"Present detection technologies require a full mobile laboratory and at least a half-hour for analysis to take place," says Snowe. "Recent research in the area of polymer and metal oxide thin film arrays holds great promise for the near real-time detection and classification of chemical and biological agents. These sensors will provide greatly enhanced protection for U.S. troops, and also be useful in combating domestic terrorism."
This newest federal funding follows a $1.8 million grant announced in 1998 for similar work.