In this Phase I SBIR program, a novel, user-friendly field sensor strip for the detection of pesticides will be developed. Based upon a multi-layer design to create a highly visible fluorescence upon exposure, it is non-instrumental, single-use test strip that can be deployed and interpreted in an easy and straight forward manner. Upon exposure to organophosphorus pesticides in water, a fluorescence signal is generated that is visible to the eye or quantifiable by instrument. Total end user cost of the test is estimated at less than $10.
The creation of this cost-effective fluorescent sensor for pesticides will enable the detection and estimation of the concentration of pesticides in water or soil samples. It will lead to a quicker and more effective evaluation of the presence of these pesticides along their chain of use in an agricultural environment, from the field to the worker and, in the future, to the consumer.