Research Project 12010305

Colorimetric Chemosensors for Explosives Detection

Project Overview

Colorimetric Chemosensors for Explosives Detection

This research project focuses on developing advanced colorimetric chemosensors for rapid, on-site detection of explosive compounds using visual color change detection technology.

Project Details

Project Number: 12010305

Duration: 2019-2021

Role: Principal Investigator

Status: Completed

Detection Technologies

  • Visual color change detection
  • Rapid response systems
  • Portable sensing platforms
  • High selectivity sensors
  • Field-deployable devices

Target Explosives

  • TNT (Trinitrotoluene)
  • RDX (Cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine)
  • PETN (Pentaerythritol tetranitrate)
  • DNT (Dinitrotoluene)
  • Nitroaromatic compounds

Technical Approach

Sensor Design Strategy

Development of highly selective colorimetric sensors that produce distinct visual color changes upon contact with explosive compounds, enabling rapid field identification.

  • Chromogenic reaction optimization
  • Molecular recognition design
  • Interference minimization
Security Applications

Field-ready sensors for security screening, perimeter monitoring, and explosive detection in high-risk environments including airports and public spaces.

  • Airport security screening
  • Border control applications
  • Law enforcement tools

Key Achievements & Impact

Enhanced Security

Improved explosive detection capabilities for security applications

Rapid Detection

Fast response time for real-time security screening

High Selectivity

Accurate identification with minimal false positives

Research Contributions

As the Principal Investigator, Dr. Mahmoud Basseem led the development of innovative colorimetric sensors for explosive detection applications.

Key Contributions:
  • Novel colorimetric sensor design
  • Rapid detection methodology
  • Security application testing
  • Performance optimization
Project Outcomes:
  • Enhanced detection sensitivity
  • Improved selectivity
  • Field-ready prototypes
  • Security technology advancement

Project Overview

This research project focuses on developing advanced colorimetric chemosensors capable of rapid, visual detection of explosives and other dangerous materials for security and safety applications.

The sensors operate through visible color change mechanisms that occur when target molecules interact with specially designed chemosensor compounds, enabling immediate visual detection without requiring sophisticated analytical equipment.

Research Objectives

Visual Detection Systems

Develop sensors that provide immediate visual feedback through color changes

Rapid Identification

Enable quick explosive identification for real-time security applications

Portable Devices

Create compact, field-deployable sensing systems

High Selectivity

Achieve precise detection with minimal false positives

Detection Technology

Molecular Recognition

Specialized binding sites that selectively interact with target explosive molecules

Chromophoric Response

Color-changing mechanisms that provide immediate visual confirmation

Signal Transduction

Efficient conversion of molecular binding events to optical signals

Sensor Architecture

Optimized molecular design for enhanced performance and stability

Security Applications

Airport Security

Rapid screening of luggage and cargo for explosive materials at transportation hubs

Critical Infrastructure

Protection of government buildings, power plants, and other sensitive facilities

Public Events

Enhanced security screening for concerts, sports events, and large gatherings