Sensor for the Detection and Identification of Bioaerosols

Biological material in the air is a natural occurrence, pollen, for example, is released by flowering plants in the spring and summer months. However, many people (15% of the population) are allergic to pollen hand can have serious symptoms that may even be life threatening. In hospitals some diseases can be spread by air contact and may result in hospital borne infections. Also at this time there is a risk from nongovernment organisations launching bioterrorism attacks that could involve relaseing air borne biological agents which can be very dangerous to whole cities. The potency of some bioaerosols (SARS, anthrax etc) is extraordinary compared to pollutants such as NOx and SO2 and CO (at equivalent part per million concentration). Despite this alarming statistic, monitoring of these particulates in the atmosphere is not straight forward, and to date there is no automated, and reliable method of detection for these air borne biological particulates.Detection and identification of these biological particles in the air presents a unique problem for which there is currently no solution. Our work has shown that it is possible for real-time sensing of boiaerosols can be feasibly achieved. In this proposal we will build a case for the substantial commercial opportunity that this technology presents. At the end of the proposed work programme, we will be in strong position to commercialise this sensor either by attracting seed funding or venture capital to create a unique high technology company or through a joint venture or licensing deal.

The need: The most effective way to make an impact is to identify and need and respond to it. The need here is to detect in real-time Nano and micro scale particulates in the atmosphere. Currently there is no commercially available sensor capable of real-time measurement on a real-time basis of bioaerosols in air. The monitoring of biological particles will benefit people suffer from seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) allergies, in areas of high risk of nongovernmental (terrorist) attach and in healthcare environments for the prevention of disease propagation. Aims: The impact of this work programme is four-fold. Firstly and primarily, we will focus our efforts on developing a sensor for the detection and identification of Bioaerosols. Secondly, create value with technology and knowledge through IP. Thirdly, to commercialise the detector through a small high technology start-up company with UCL business. Fourthly, to sell the detector to the most appropriate market. The programme proposed here will aid the first two objectives and will provide valuable support to lead us to achieve the second two. The aim is to successfully translate innovative technology from the laboratory into a valuable company which will be an asset to British business. We will be supported by UCL Business PLC, which is well placed to exploit any possible IP that will result from this work. UCL Business PLC has an impressive portfolio of patents which is particularly strong in engineering and physical sciences. A combination of this funding for 12 months, very able and focused dynamic researchers and UCL Business will lead to a very synergistic and formidable force which will elevate any chance of success in this endeavour.