Abstract: A vapor sampling adapter for direct analysis in real time mass spectrometer (DART-MS) applications comprises a vapor transport line and a manifold. In the preferred embodiment the vapor transport line is heated and approximately 20 feet in length. This provides a means to utilize the highly accurate and reliable DART-MS device to detect chemical agents at sample location points up to 20 feet away from the device with the ability to easily move the sampling point to any desired point within the sampling range, thus allowing the operator to systematically scan a site in a fashion similar to that used with a handheld detector. Sample vapor flows through the vapor transport line to the manifold where it comes in proximity to the ion generator of the DART mass spectrometer before entering into the mass spectrometer for analysis. The present invention may be used to raster a surface to determine the precise location of chemical agent contamination.

Abstract: A chemical warfare (CW) agent decontamination system and method for decontaminated surfaces contaminated by CW agents. The system includes both solid particles and liquid solution in admixture such that the solid particles absorb the liquid decontamination material. The method of decontaminating surfaces contaminated with CW agents includes contacting the CW agent with a sufficient amount of a solid-particle sorbent for a sufficient time and under conditions which are sufficient to produce a reaction product having less toxicity than the CW agent. CW agents to be decontaminated include the nerve agents VX and G-type agents, and mustard agent HD. The system is non-toxic and has a reduced environmental impact as compared to the previously available decontamination systems and solutions.

Abstract: Methods and systems for processing vesicants as well as other irritants are described. In some methods a vesicant, for example, a Lewisite such as the L1 form, the L2 form, L3 form, or combination thereof, is combined with permanganate, for example, as an aqueous solution of sodium permanganate. The methods can include releasing the vesicants or irritants from a munition, for example, by explosively rupturing the munition.

Abstract: Compositions of matter and methods for enhancing bioassay performance are disclosed. More particularly, the composition of matter comprises a molecularly compact polymer-ligand conjugate capable of self-orienting on a surface to improve the orientation of the ligand/receptor binding domains within the bioassay at the nanoscopic level. In a preferred embodiment, the molecularly compact polymer comprises a dendrimer polymer such as a fifth generation polyamidoamine dendrimer having exterior surface hydroxyl and amine functional groups, and the ligand/receptor comprises an antibody or Fab.

Abstract: Nanocapsules useful for encapsulating bioactive molecules such as proteins are disclosed. These nanocapsules are comprised of branched or hyperbranched polymers and copolymers and have a core-shell structure forming a pocket volume appropriate for complexing and retaining enzymes and other bioactive molecules. The nanoencapsulated bioactive molecule is stable in extreme temperatures and pH, soluble in aqueous or organic solvents, and can be lyophilized to a dry powder for long-term storage without loss of enzyme activity.