SBIR Phase I: An Automated Water Pathogen Monitoring System

Vegrandis, Llc, Fayetteville AR

Investigators

Abstract

This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project aims to develop a continuous, rapid- detection water-monitoring device to identify potential pathogens in water. This device will incorporate immunoassay coupled with electrochemical detection. The advantages are the speed of detection and the ability to automate the procedure. This Phase I project will determine the feasibility of creating a proof-of-concept system to monitor water for the parasite Cryptosporidium parvum. Cryptosporidium parvum does not respond to common antibiotics and resists water purification treatments. The objective of the Phase I project is to show detection time of less than 4 hrs for pathogen concentrations of the order of 100 organisms per liter without the need for manual sample concentration steps. The initial commercial application of this project will be in the monitoring of drinking water supplies for pathogens. Additional applications would include testing of water in distribution networks, and at bottling and packaging facilities. The device could eventually be adapted for emergency field use, for home use by safety conscious consumers, and for medical, industrial, recreational and combat purposes.