NEVADA NANOTECH SYSTEMS, INC. — Department of Homeland Security SBIR Phase I: H-SB013.2-001

Description

The proposed goal of Nevada Nanotech Systems Inc for the Phase I program is to select a practical technological solution and develop a Con-Ops for the problem of detecting U.S. currency via unique vapor signature(s) in confined spaces for three related, though unique, application scenarios (bags, vehicles, and shipping containers). Nevada Nano will document a matrix of technical and operational requirements for three application areas, identifying commonalities and key differences. Nevada Nano will map the requirements to the capabilities of various existing technologies and assess the tradeoffs. Any gaps in the technology capabilities versus application requirements will be identified and workarounds developed to minimize the impacts. The Phase II goal is to fabricate systems for field testing, achieve satisfactory detection results in these tests, and provide detailed documentation of the performance. It is expected that a field-proven technology (TRL10) can be adapted for this application; however the need for adaptation will reduce the TRL to about 5/6 at the end of Phase I. Rapid increases to TRL7/8 are expected early in Phase II. The anticipated results are: 1. a comprehensive listing of requirements for this task based on prior studies and additional tests 2. a detailed assessment of the advantages and disadvantages of each possible technology solution with documented test results demonstrating baseline capabilities 3. a selection of the best fit technology and clear documentation of the strengths and weaknesses of the technology 4. conceptual design of any adaptations required for this application