OMBRA LLC — Department of Defense STTR Phase I: AF21A-TCSO1

Description

Ombra, a Florida-based Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), and Clarkson University propose to customize a unique solution to combatting the global pandemic of COVID-19 and ensure potable water supplies. Advanced Water Testing Technology (AWTT) seeks to differentiate potable water supplies from non-potables sources while identifying specific sources of contamination.   The product would improve Installation Resilience during natural disasters to maintain water supplies during periods of utilities outage.  Wastewater Based Epidemiology (WBE) has always been a prevalent issue, yet has rapidly evolved throughout 2020 and into 2021. WBE is a useful approach to monitor biological outbreaks, specifically in compact areas. Individual testing methods are expensive, timely, and have the possibility for false positive and negative results. The primary method of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is through respiratory droplets in air, however, a significant number of inactive viral particles are available in the feces of people who are infected. The solution proposed to properly test for active viral strands is known as AWTT. The technology will eliminate the challenges of individual testing by providing an overall fraction of the positive cases present in a closed sewer system network. This is extremely beneficial, as AWTT can detect the virus in both symptomatic and asymptomatic people, even during the three to five day incubation period. Thus, AWTT can detect potential outbreaks before they become uncontrollable, keeping people safe and healthy during this time of crisis. From a technical standpoint. Right now, COVID-19 is the cause of the global pandemic, however, AWTT can be modified easily to be used in future instances with different viral strands to detect their outbreaks as well. To accomplish the task at hand, Ombra and Clarkson University will conduct a thorough feasibility study to determine required wastewater testing needs of military personnel and other end users.