The goal of this project is to develop a new sampling and analysis system combining two new technologies. A lightweight ultrasonic sampler will be paired with an electrochemical paper-based analytical device (ePAD) for measurement of metals in airborne particulate matter (PM). Exposure to particulate matter (PM) air pollution ranks as the 5th leading risk factor for human morbidity and mortality worldwide ? outpacing the health risks of all other environmental hazards combined. Although PM is a complex mixture of many potentially toxic compounds, the transition and heavy metal content present in PM is thought to play a significant role in toxicity. The disease burden posed by PM is supported by strong epidemiologic links between population exposure and many forms of ill health (e.g., cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, neurological disorders, and cancer). Despite these scientific links, little is known about individual (i.e., personal) air pollution exposures because existing technologies for assessing personal PM exposure are expensive, burdensome, and complicated. Furthermore, PM sample analysis techniques (especially for transition and heavy metals) are prohibitively high ($100s/sample) and require the use of a centralized laboratory and specialized staff. Access Sensor Technologies has a vision to change this sampling and measurement paradigm by providing low-cost, high- performance tools for quantifying personal exposure to PM toxicants, with an emphasis on metals. The global market for air pollution monitoring exceeds $4B; we seek to leverage this market with a disruptive technology than can revolutionize the state-of-the-art in personal exposure monitoring. During Phase I, the basic analytic chemistry using electrochemical paper-based analytic devices (ePADs) and sample processing componentry for measuring metals were developed and demonstrated. During Phase II, we will develop a product line that includes a wearable (silent, lightweight, compact) air sampler, a streamlined module for chemical analysis, and the software/interface necessary for mobile-phone operation and communications; this ?total analysis system? will streamline the process of exposure and risk assessment while dramatically lowering cost. We will validate this system through laboratory and field studies against gold-standard methods. The outcome of this project will be products designed to penetrate research and consulting markets in industrial hygiene and environmental monitoring, with a long-term goal of offering a low-cost consumer product.For this Phase II project, we will 1) Integrate AST's proprietary air sampling technology with a streamlined analytic kit for in-field filter ex-traction and metals analysis 2) Develop an inexpensive and disposable sensor for rapid, simultaneous quantification of multiple met-als from a single air sampling filter and 3) Demonstrate product viability through field testing with early-stage commercial partners. If successful, we will also have product applications beyond particulate air pollution, as the sensor paradigm is amenable for water, soil, and food analyses as well. There is an urgent global need for simpler cheaper analysis of the world around us.
Exposure to particulate matter (PM) air pollution ranks as the 5th leading risk factor for human morbidity and mortality worldwide 1 ? outpacing the health risks of all other environmental hazards combined. Easy, low-cost analysis of PM is presently not possible especially for metals composition. We propose developing a low-cost, easy to use total analysis system for the collection and analysis of toxic metals present in PM.
