Submerged explosives detection platforms using immunosensing technology

One of the most difficult aspects of maintaining port and maritime security is the detection, localization, and classification of submerged explosive devices, biochemical agents, and contraband including narcotics. The Explosives Ordnance Disposal (EOD) community has expressed the need for improved methods of detection to augment current capabilities. SubChem Systems Inc. and the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) has been working to transition displacement-based immunosensing technology to a commercial system with application towards submerged munitions and contraband detection, classification, and localization. Immunosensing is based upon antibody specificity for a desired target. Funded by the Office of Naval Research, the partners have demonstrated using this technology as a means of chemical detection onboard a custom designed payload for an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV). The NAVY Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) program enabled SubChem Systems to provide a concept adaptation of the AUV payload to a diver held version for use in high clutter, low visibility, environments that present an added danger to EOD divers.