Apparatus and associated cartridge, system and method for detecting the presence of a chemical

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an apparatus and associated cartridge, system and method for detecting the presence of a chemical. According to some embodiments, the apparatus includes: a body comprising a receiving portion for removably receiving a cartridge, fluid supply structure for introducing the fluid into the cartridge, and an excitation device for supplying electromagnetic energy to the cartridge, the cartridge comprising: a housing receiving the fluid so as to expose the sensing material to the fluid for the sensing material to present a luminescent property when electromagnetic energy is introduced; a measurement device and an apparatus processor communicatively coupled to receive a signal from the measurement device based on a measured luminescent property of the sensing material, the processor configured to determine the presence of the chemical based on the received signal. The luminescent property may be indicative of the presence of the chemical in the fluid.

Description

"Apparatus and Associated Cartridge, System and Method for Detecting the Presence of a Chemical"Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the detection of the presence of a chemical. In particular, the present disclosure relates to an apparatus for detecting the presence of a chemical in a fluid and an associated cartridge, system and method.Background

[0002] There is an on-going need to develop techniques for detection of various chemicals. In particular, there is a need for detection methods that are rapid and have the capability to detect chemicals at low concentrations, by example below permissible exposure limits for chemical threats. There is also a desire for detection that is selective and capable of differentiating between different classes of chemicals and identification of specific compounds.

[0003] By example, there are numerous methods that can in principle be used for the detection of chemicals, such as chemical threats, although not always in a portable form, with their use mainly in laboratory or fixed settings due to size, weight and power restrictions. Such detection technologies include nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), X-ray and mass spectroscopy techniques and ion mobility spectrometers. An issue with laboratory-based analytical techniques is that they often require highly trained technical staff and can be expensive. There is a distinct advantage of having a means for detection that is portable and can be used in a wide range of scenarios. There are now examples of portable analytical instruments such as ion mobility and mass spectrometers but while they can detect trace amounts of a chemical they are usually bulky, heavy and power hungry. Portable Raman spectrometers have been developed and are capable of detecting bulk samples, even in some cases, through packaging. Other portable methods of detecting chemicals include colorimetric detectors, which can be either device-based or simple paper testing strips. However, small changes in colour (absorption) can often be difficult to detect and the use of paper testing strips is an issue for people who are colour blind as well as being subject to the lighting conditions. Canines are also used as portable detectors for the detection of some chemicals such as explosives and illicit drugs, but they are expensive to train and maintain and there is the ethical question of exposing the animals to dangerous chemicals.

[0004] It is an object of the present disclosure to substantially overcome, or at least ameliorate, one or more of the disadvantages of existing arrangements, or at least provide a useful alternative to existing arrangements.

[0005] Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like which has been included in the present specification is not to be taken as an admission that any or all ofthese matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present disclosure as it existed before the priority date of each of the appended claims.Summary

[0006] According to an aspect, an apparatus for detecting the presence of a chemical in a fluid, the apparatus including: a body comprising a receiving portion for removably receiving a cartridge, fluid supply structure for introducing the fluid into the cartridge, and an excitation device for supplying electromagnetic energy to the cartridge, the cartridge comprising: a housing comprising sensing material configured to receive the electromagnetic energy, the housing receiving the fluid so as to expose the sensing material to the fluid for the sensing material to present a luminescent property when the electromagnetic energy is introduced; a measurement device configured to measure the luminescent property of the sensing material; an apparatus processor communicatively coupled to the measurement device to receive a signal from the measurement device based on the measured luminescent property and configured to determine the presence of the chemical based on the signal, wherein the luminescent property is indicative of the presence of the chemical in the fluid.

[0007] The body may be an enclosed housing containing the receiving portion, apparatus processor, and measurement device. The body may comprise a guide for guiding released luminescence from the cartridge to the measurement device. The body may include a fluid outlet structure for allowing the fluid to be discharged from the cartridge and the body.

[0008] The body may comprise a further one or more receiving portions for receiving a respective further one or more cartridges. Therefore, in some embodiments, the body comprises a plurality of receiving portions for receiving a respective plurality of cartridges. Each cartridge of the plurality of cartridges may comprise the same or different sensing material. The body may comprise a plurality of receiving portions for receiving a respective plurality of cartridges, wherein each cartridge comprises a different sensing material. Each different sensing material may be suitable for presenting a response to a different chemical in the fluid.

[0009] The apparatus may include a fluid flow control element for enabling flow of the fluid through the fluid supply structure, the cartridge or plurality of cartridges, and the fluid outlet structure.

[0010] The apparatus processor may be configured to determine the presence of the chemical or chemicals by classification of the chemical(s) based on the signal received from the measurement device. The apparatus processor may be configured to generate an output signalindicating the presence of the chemical(s) for reception by an output module or device accessible to an operator.

[0011] The measurement device may comprise a spectrometer configured to measure the luminescent property and transmit the signal to the apparatus processor.

[0012] The luminescent property may be one or a combination of: an intensity of luminescence, a wavelength of luminescence, a change in luminescence of the sensing material before, during and / or after exposure to the fluid.

[0013] The apparatus may further include a further one or more excitation devices configured for generating electromagnetic energy to respective sensing materials of one or more of the cartridges when received in one or more receiving portions; and respective and / or shared luminescence extrication structure from respective locations proximate or within each receiving portion to the measurement device. In some embodiments, the body may comprise a plurality of excitation devices configured for generating electromagnetic energy to the respective sensing materials of each of the plurality cartridges when received in the plurality of receiving portions 130.

[0014] The apparatus processor may be configured to coordinate the generation of electromagnetic energy of the excitation devices and measurement by the measurement device.

[0015] The apparatus may include the cartridge or plurality of cartridges, wherein the cartridge(s) is: contained in the receiving portion(s), communicatively coupled to the apparatus processor, fluidly coupled to the fluid supply structure, and electromagnetically coupled to the measurement device.

[0016] The fluid supply structure may include an inlet defined by the enclosed body and a channel from the inlet to an aperture of the contained cartridge for introducing the fluid to the housing of the cartridge.

[0017] According to an aspect, a cartridge for an apparatus for detecting the presence of a chemical in a fluid, the apparatus including a body comprising a receiving portion for removably receiving the cartridge, fluid supply structure for introducing the fluid into the cartridge, and an excitation device for supplying electromagnetic energy to the cartridge, the cartridge comprising a housing comprising sensing material configured to receive the electromagnetic energy, the housing receiving the fluid so as to expose the sensing material to the fluid for the sensing material to present a luminescent property for measurement by a measurement device of the apparatus when the electromagnetic energy is received by the sensing material from the apparatus.

[0018] The cartridge may further include a heating module, the heating module configured for heating the sensing material to a predetermined temperature.

[0019] The housing may be suitably formed for insertion into and removal from a body of the apparatus. The apparatus may be an apparatus according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0020] The cartridge may further include memory accessible to the processor of the apparatus, wherein the memory is configured with data indicating an operating configuration. The operating configuration may include at least one of: an indicator of a category of chemical, an indicator of the sensing material, at least one frequency of operation of the excitation device, or data for processing an output signal of the measurement device. The memory may be configured with data indicating a heating configuration in accordance with which the apparatus processor controls the heating module.

[0021] The cartridge may include a substrate for bearing the sensing material.

[0022] According to an aspect, a modular heating unit for vaporising a sample for detection of a chemical, the heating unit including: a housing; a heating source in the housing; and a sample bearing portion in the housing; wherein the housing is configured to removably attach from an enclosed body of an apparatus for detection of the chemical; and wherein the heating unit is configured to actuate the heating source to heat a sample on the sample bearing portion to generate a fluid and introduce the fluid to an inlet of the enclosed body of the apparatus.

[0023] The apparatus may be an apparatus according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0024] According to an aspect, a system for detecting the presence of a chemical in a fluid, the system including: an apparatus including a body comprising a receiving portion for removably receiving a cartridge, fluid supply structure for introducing the fluid into the cartridge, and an excitation device for supplying electromagnetic energy to the cartridge, the cartridge comprising: a housing comprising sensing material configured to receive the electromagnetic energy, the housing receiving the fluid so as to expose the sensing material to the fluid for the sensing material to present a luminescent property when the electromagnetic energy is introduced; a measurement device configured to measure a luminescent property of the sensing material; a system processor communicatively coupled to the measurement device to receive a signal from the measurement device based on the measured luminescent property and configured to determine the presence of the chemical based on the signal, wherein the luminescent property is indicative of the presence of the chemical in the fluid. The system may include the removably attachable modular heating unit for vaporising a sample for detection of the chemical.

[0025] According to an aspect, a method for detecting the presence of a chemical in a fluid, the method including: introducing fluid into a cartridge contained in a body of an apparatus fordetecting the presence of the chemical; sending a signal to an excitation device of the apparatus to supply electromagnetic energy to a sensing material contained in the cartridge; receiving a signal from a measurement device indicative of a luminescent property of the sensing material measured by the measurement device; and determining the presence of the chemical based on the signal, wherein the luminescent property is indicative of the presence of the chemical in the fluid.

[0026] According to an aspect the apparatus includes a detachable filter attachable to the inlet of the fluid supply structure to condition entering air. The detachable filter may induce dryness. The detachable filter may include a casing and glass wool and / or silica gel beads. The detachable filter and inlet may be configured as a luer lock for detachable connections to each other.

[0027] According to another aspect the detachable filter may include potassium carbonate coated or infused steel wool or porous cotton. The detachable filter may include a lid encasing the heating unit to the enclosed body of the apparatus when the heating unit is removably attached to apparatus. The lid may include a calcium chloride filter. The lid may be formed from metal.

[0028] According to an aspect the cartridge includes a lower structure, the lower structure including a reflective hollow below the substrate bearing the sensing material to uniformly illuminate the substrate and sensing material.

[0029] Throughout this specification the words "comprise" and “include”, or variations such as "comprises", “includes”, "comprising" or “including”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps.Brief Description of Drawings

[0030] Embodiments will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompany drawings in which:

[0031] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of an apparatus for detection of a chemical according to some embodiments;

[0032] Figure 2 shows an isometric view of the apparatus according to some embodiments with (a) a cover removed and (b) with a cover in a closed and sealed position;

[0033] Figure 3 shows an exploded isometric view of the apparatus according to some embodiments;

[0034] Figure 4 shows an isometric view of the apparatus according to some embodiments;

[0035] Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of a cartridge for the apparatus according to some embodiments;

[0036] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the cartridge according to some embodiments;

[0037] Figure 7 shows an exploded isometric view of the cartridge according to some embodiments;

[0038] Figure 8 shows a schematic diagram of a heating unit according to some embodiments;

[0039] Figure 9 shows a side view of the heating unit according to some embodiments;

[0040] Figure 10 shows an isometric view of the apparatus including the heating unit according to some embodiments;

[0041] Figure 11 shows an exploded isometric view of the heating unit according to some embodiments;

[0042] Figure 12 shows a schematic diagram of a system for detection of a chemical according to some embodiments;

[0043] Figure 13 shows a flow chart of a method for detection of a chemical according to some embodiments;

[0044] Figure 14 shows a table of results according to some embodiments with chemicals as illicit drugs;

[0045] Figure 15 shows a table of results according to some embodiments with chemicals as Chemical Warfare Agent simulants;

[0046] Figure 16 shows a table of results according to some embodiments with chemicals as Explosives;

[0047] Figure 17 shows a table of results according to some embodiments pertaining to Multiclass chemical identification;

[0048] Figure 18 shows chemical structures of non-limiting examples of sensing materials of the cartridge according to some embodiments;

[0049] Figure 19 shows an example of the use of CUSUM by a processor of an apparatus according to some embodiments in detecting the presence of a chemical in a fluid;

[0050] Figure 20 shows a graphical representation of data comprising luminescent properties measured for different sensing materials exposed to different chemicals;

[0051] Figure 21 shows an output from LDA and k-nearest neighbours with DTW classification methods performed on the data of Figure 20;

[0052] Figure 22 shows an example of a detachable filter according to some embodiments;

[0053] Figures 23 and 24 show graphical representations of data comprising luminescent properties measured under differing temperature conditions with and without use of the detachable filter;

[0054] Figure 25 shows graphical representation of use of luminescent properties measured when a sensing material is exposed to MeBr with and without use of the detachable filter.

[0055] Figure 26 shows another example of a detachable filter according to some other embodiments;

[0056] Figures 27 and 28 show graphical representations of luminescent properties measured with and without components of the detachable filter in some other embodiments; and

[0057] Figures 29 and 30 show lower and upper structure for housing sensing element and substrate according to some embodiments.Detailed Description of Embodiments

[0058] The symbols and conventions used herein are consistent with those used in the contemporary scientific literature. Specifically the following abbreviations may be used in the specification: min (minute); s (seconds); NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance); PL (photoluminescence); CWAs (chemical warfare agents); illicit drugs, explosives.

[0059] Accordingly, and unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art of this disclosure.

[0060] The articles "a" and "an" are used herein to refer to one or to more than one (i.e. to at least one) of the grammatical object of the article. By way of example, "an element" means one element or more than one element.

[0061] The terms "chemical warfare nerve agent" and "nerve agent" when used herein refer to highly toxic synthetic organophosphate compounds classed as chemical weapons. These organophosphate compounds are classed as Schedule 1 poisons. The compounds are usually dispersed in an airborne form, for example as a vapour, a mist or an aerosol. The mode of action is attack of the nervous system though inhibition of acetylcholinesterase in the body, resulting in muscle overstimulation due to build-up of the neurotransmitter acetyl choline. Exposure to nerve agents generally results in death by asphyxiation. Nerve agents are described in, for example, S. Costanzi et al., ACS Chem. Neurosci. 2018, 9, 873; T.C.C. Franca et al., Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, 20, 1222; and Mirzayanov, V.S. State Secrets: An Insider’s Chronicle of the Russian Chemical Weapons Program; Outskirts Press, Inc.: Parker, CO, USA, 2009; ISBN 1432725661.

[0062] Nerve agents are generally divided into two main families, namely the G-series and the V-series. V-series nerve agents have an electron-donating -C-N(alkyl)2 moiety, i.e., a tertiary amine. The G-series nerve agents do not have a tertiary amine. Where a nitrogen atom is present in a G-series nerve agent, it is generally forms part of a less electron-donating moiety such as -P=O[N(Me)2], A third family of nerve agents, the A-series, is commonly referred to asNovichok. These nerve agents are also believed to have a less electron donating - P=O[(N=C(NR2)n] moiety.

[0063] The term “explosives” includes traditional high explosives such as 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) including impurities from its synthesis, taggants such as 2,3-dimethyl-2,3-dinitrobutane used with plastic explosives (e.g., RDX), organoperoxides, fertilizer based explosives, and low explosives such as black powder and gun powder.

[0064] Illicit drugs include known chemicals including methylenedioxyamphetamine (MA), 3, 4-m ethylenedi oxy-methamphetamine (MDMA), cocaine, heroin, tetrahydrocabinnol (cannabis), fentanyl, which may be in a free base or salt form, or mixed with cutting agents. It will be appreciated that such drugs can have derivative forms (e.g., fentanyl has numerous derivatives) and that minor variations in structure can control potency. It will also be appreciated that there are a continual supply of new synthetic illicit drugs whose structures are not yet known.

[0065] Chemical warfare agents includes known chemicals defined by the Organisation for the Prohibition for Chemical Weapons (OPCW) including sulfur mustard, chloropicrin, and lewisite. Example Embodiments

[0066] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of an apparatus 100 for detection of a chemical according to some embodiments. Figures 2 and 4 show isometric views of apparatus 100 according to some embodiments. Figure 3 shows an exploded isometric view of the apparatus 100 according to some embodiments. Apparatus 100 may comprise a number of parts that enable the collection and detection of the chemical. The apparatus 100 may be a device 100. The apparatus 100 may be referred to as a detector 100. The apparatus 100 includes a body 110. The body 110 may be a housing 110. The body may be an enclosed housing 110. Therefore, the body 110 may contain components of the apparatus 100 within the enclosed housing 110. In some embodiments, body 110 and thereby apparatus 100 is a portable device. Body 110 and thereby apparatus 100 may have a form factor and mass suitable to be handheld in use.

[0067] The body 110 may comprise a receiving portion 130 for receiving a cartridge 135 also referred to as a sensing cartridge 135 herein. The body 110 may be formed to define the receiving portion 130. The body may include one or more parts for defining the receiving portion 130. The receiving portion 130 may removably receive the cartridge 135. The cartridge 135 may be configured to contain a sensing material 137. The body 110 may comprise one or more further receiving portions 130 configured for receiving a respective one or more cartridges 135. Therefore body 110 may comprise a plurality of receiving portions 130 configured for receiving a respective plurality of cartridges 135. As shown in Figure 1, body 110 may comprise receivingportion 130a configured for receiving cartridge 135a, the latter which is configured to contain sensing material 137a. Also shown in Figure 1, body 110 may comprise receiving portion 130b configured for receiving cartridge 135b, the latter which is configured to contain sensing material 137b. It will be appreciated that the body 110 may comprise one or more receiving portions 130 that may be configured for receiving one cartridge 135, which one cartridge 135 is configured to contain more than one sensing material 137.

[0068] The sensing material 137 may present a luminescent property when in contact with a particular chemical in response to exposure to electromagnetic energy. The electromagnetic energy may be light. The electromagnetic energy may be light in the ultraviolet, visible, or nearinfrared spectrum. The electromagnetic energy may be supplied by an excitation device 140. In some embodiments, the excitation device 140 may be a light emitting device 140. In some other embodiments, the excitation device 140 may be a laser 140.

[0069] The body 110 may include the excitation device 140. The excitation device 140 is configured for supplying electromagnetic energy to the cartridge 135. In some preferred embodiments, the body 110 houses the excitation device 140. In some embodiments, the excitation device 140 is located in proximity to the receiving portion 130 so that the excitation device 140 can supply electromagnetic energy through a proximate aperture of the cartridge 135 to the sensing material 137 contained within when the cartridge 135 is received in the receiving portion 130. In some embodiments, the excitation device 140 is located underneath and / or within the receiving portion 130. Therefore, in some embodiments, the excitation device 140 defines a part of the receiving portion 130. In some other embodiments, the body 110 comprises electromagnetic energy supply structure 142 to guide the electromagnetic energy to an aperture of the cartridge 135 to the sensing material 137 contained within the cartridge 135.The excitation device 140 may be configured to supply light in the ultraviolet, visible, or nearinfrared spectrum. In some embodiments, excitation device 140 includes a light-emitting diode (LED), which may be inorganic or organic. In some embodiments, excitation device 140 includes a plurality of LEDs for each cartridge 135. Accordingly, body 110 may comprise a plurality of excitation devices 140 configured for generating electromagnetic energy to the respective sensing materials 137 of each of the plurality cartridges 135 when received in the plurality of receiving portions 130. In some embodiments, the excitation device 140 includes three LEDs emitting at wavelengths of 390, 405 or 480 nm respectively.

[0070] The apparatus 100 includes a measurement device 160. The body 110 may include the measurement device 160. In some preferred embodiments, the body 110 houses the measurement device 160. The measurement device 160 is configured to measure the luminescent property ofthe sensing material 137. The luminescent property is indicative of the presence of the chemical in the fluid.

[0071] The measurement device 160 may be referred to as a light detector 160. The measurement device 160 may measure the luminescent property as associated with one or more of the intensity and wavelength of the photoluminescence (PL) presented by the sensing material 137. The measurement device 160 could be one or more broadband photodiodes, which can be used in conjunction with optical filters to give wavelength selectivity. In some embodiments, the measurement device 160 comprises a spectrometer. In some embodiments, the measurement device 160 is contained in a hermetic package. In some embodiments, the measurement device 160 comprises a Hamamatsu C12880MA mini spectrometer, as shown in Figure 3.

[0072] The body 110 may include a guide 162 configured to guide luminescence from the cartridge 135 to the measurement device 160 for measurement. The guide 162 may comprise a structure suitable for guiding luminescence. In some embodiments, guide 162 comprises an optical waveguide. Guide 162 may be referred to as luminescence extrication structure 162. Guides 162 from multiple cartridges 135 may form together to create a single channel to the measurement device 160, by non-limiting example in the form of a tree and thereby referred to as a Tight tree’, as shown in Figure 3. The components of guide 162 can be made of glass or plastic and in a preferred embodiment is made of a UV-resistant material. In a further embodiment the guide 162 acts as a filter for unabsorbed excitation, which voids the need for optical filters. In a preferred embodiment the guide 162 is made from an acrylic-based polymer. The acrylic-based polymer may have more rigidity than an optic fibre implementation.

[0073] The apparatus 100 includes a processor 120 and memory 125 accessible to the processor 120. The body 110 may include the processor 120 and memory 125. In some preferred embodiments, the body 110 houses the processor 120 and memory 125. The processor 120 is communicatively coupled with the measurement device 160.

[0074] The measurement device 160 is therewith configured to transmit a signal to the processor 120. The signal is based on the luminescent property measured by the measurement device 160 and therefore may be used to determine the presence of the chemical in the fluid.

[0075] The processor 120 is configured to receive the signal from the measurement device 160. The processor 120 is configured to determine the presence of the chemical based on the signal. By example, the processor 120 can determine the presence of the chemical based on the signal from any one or more of a measured intensity, wavelength or change in the PL presented by the sensing material 137. By non-limiting example, the processor 120 can determine the presence ofthe chemical based on the signal from a change in the PL as a function of wavelength and intensity, such as an integration over a wavelength range.

[0076] It will however be appreciated that there are a number of means, calculations and / or algorithms through which the processor 120 can determine the presence of the chemical based on the signal. By example, an algorithm can include methods for removal of baseline drift that can be caused by a number of reasons including photooxidation of the sensing material 137 and / or changes in temperature and / or humidity and / or changes in background light which may be measured by measurement device 160. Methods for removal of the baseline may include regression techniques. Furthermore, algorithms can be used for ‘event’ detection from the measured luminescent property with the goal of improving a limit of detection. Embodiments for such event detection include sequential changepoint detection such as a cumulative sum chart (CUSUM) and machine learning methods. In a further embodiment algorithms are used to improve the analytical capability of the apparatus 100 by enabling classification of detection events into chemical classes and / or chemical identification. By non-limiting examples, the methods that can be utilized include principal component analysis, linear discriminant analysis, k-nearest neighbours analysis, dynamic time-warping and other machine learning methods.

[0077] It will be appreciated that means, calculations and / or algorithms through which the processor 120 can determine the presence of the chemical based on the signal can combine multiple operations, by example baseline correction, event detection, classification and / or redundancy check for a failing cartridge 135 to enable continued operation with the remaining functioning cartridges 135 where the apparatus 100 is used with multiple cartridges 135.

[0078] Processor 120 may also be configured to coordinate the generation of electromagnetic energy by the excitation devices 140 and measurement by the measurement device 160. For example processor 120 may control measurement for each sensing cartridge 135 individually in sequence. By example, the processor 120 may cause a ‘dark’ measurement (PL presented by the sensing material 137 in the absence of electromagnetic energy from an excitation device 140) and a ‘light’ measurement (PL presented by the sensing material 137 when electromagnetic energy is introduced from an excitation device 140) to be measured by the measurement device 160. The dark and light measurements may be measured for the same duration.

[0079] Therewith, the signal received by the processor 120 from the measurement device 160 may comprise the dark and light measurements. Accordingly, the processor 120, in determining the presence of the chemical based on the signal, may subtract the dark measurement from the light measurement to reduce noise and / or isolate the luminescence presented by the sensing material 137 from any background light.

[0080] The measurement device 160 may perform a sequence of measurements for the cartridge 135. Where the apparatus is used with multiple cartridges 135, the measurement device 160 may perform a sequence of measurements across the cartridges 135. The sequence of measurements across the cartridges 135 may be repeated, by non-limiting example, such that all the cartridges 135 are measured once each second. By example, where the apparatus 100 is used with 8 cartridges 135, all the cartridges 135 may be measured once each second by taking a dark measurement for approximately 50 ms and a light measurement for approximately 50 ms for each cartridge 135 in sequence, totalling to 800 ms to allow for a time buffer between measurements if necessary to a total of 200 ms.

[0081] The sensing material 137 functions to present a luminescent property but it will be appreciated that the nature of that luminescent property, and so the nature of the sensing material 137 itself, is not particularly limited. As the sensing material 137 must assist with detection of the presence of the chemical of interest then it will be understood that exposure of the chemical of interest, by example entrained in the fluid, to the sensing material 137 should result in a measurable response of the sensing material 137 to the electromagnetic energy to which it is exposed, as compared with the response of the sensing material 137 to the electromagnetic energy in the absence of the chemical of interest.

[0082] As used herein, a sensing material 137 presenting a luminescent property may refer to a species that can absorb a quantum of electromagnetic radiation to produce an excited state structure and may, in some cases, emit radiation. In some cases, the luminescence may be a fluorescence emission, phosphorescence, chemiluminescence, electrochemiluminescence, or the like.

[0083] In embodiments, the sensing material 137 may, prior to contact with the chemical being detected, present a measurable luminescence at a particular wavelength or wavelength range as a response to exposure to the electromagnetic energy. Upon contact with the chemical being detected the response of the sensing material 137 to exposure to the electromagnetic energy may change such that the luminescence is quenched, i.e. a ‘switch off or ‘turn off response. That is, the native luminescence of the sensing material 137 is prevented. Alternatively, the luminescence of the sensing material 137 may simply be diminished in intensity or shifted to a different wavelength or in some manner altered.

[0084] In embodiments, the sensing material 137 may, prior to contact with the chemical being detected, not demonstrate luminescence as a response to exposure to the electromagnetic energy. Upon contact with the chemical being detected the response of the sensing material 137 to exposure to the electromagnetic energy may change such that luminescence is observed, i.e. a‘switch on’ or ‘turn on’ response. The turn on response may, in embodiments, be due to a chemical reaction between the chemical being detected and the sensing material 137 such that the sensing material 137 is converted into one having luminescence. Alternatively, the sensing material 137 may inherently demonstrate luminescence which is simply increased in intensity or shifted to a different wavelength or in some manner altered upon contact with the chemical being detected. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that in some embodiments, no change in luminescence presented by the sensing material 137 may constitute a response.

[0085] Determination of the response by the sensing material 137, the luminescent property, may therefore enable determination of the presence of the chemical of interest in the fluid. In embodiments, the response may be a change which comprises a decrease or increase in luminescence intensity, and / or a change in the wavelength of the luminescence, such as a red- shifted change. The change in luminescence intensity may occur with substantially no shift in the wavelength of the luminescence, wherein the intensity changes but the wavelength remains essentially unchanged. In other embodiments, the change in luminescence intensity may occur in combination with a shift in the wavelength of the luminescence. For example, the luminescence presented by the sensing material 137 may simultaneously undergo a shift in wavelength in addition to an increase or decrease in luminescence intensity when exposed to the chemical. It will be appreciated that the response may be as a result of a reaction between the sensing material 137 and the chemical, the response being luminescence presented by a product of the reaction. Accordingly, the reaction product is also intended to be included herein with reference to sensing material 137.

[0086] In embodiments, the sensing material 137 may be selected to have a fast recovery time following a positive test result for a chemical of interest. That is, the sensing material 137 can substantially recover the original response to the electromagnetic energy and can be ready for exposure to another fluid sample within a relatively short period of time. In some cases, the sensing material 137 can recover at least 50% of its original response to the electromagnetic energy from a positive test result in 12 hours or less, 10 hours or less, 5 hours or less, 1 hour or less, 30 minutes or less, 10 minutes or less, 5 minutes or less, 1 minute or less, 30 seconds or less, 10 seconds or less, 5 seconds or less, or 1 second or less, after exposure to the chemical of interest has ceased. In other embodiments, and as discussed above, the sensing material 137 can react with the chemical of interest such that the change caused by the reaction leads to an irreversible change in the luminescence presented by the sensing material 137.

[0087] The luminescent property presented by the sensing material 137, and being measured by the measuring device 160, is therefore not particularly limited. So long as a measurabledifference is observed between the response of the sensing material 137 upon exposure to the electromagnetic energy before it has been exposed to the chemical of interest and the response after it has been exposed to the chemical of interest, then the luminescent property and sensing material 137 may be suitable for use.

[0088] Such sensing materials 137 are well-known and so the person of skill in the art can select from a wide range of commercially available sources and those reported in the scientific literature for use in the apparatus 100 of the disclosure. By way of non-limiting example, any of the compounds described in one or more of WO2014 / 085858, WO2019 / 023753;W02019 / 079860; WO2022 / 104414, each of which documents is hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety, as being suitable for the detection of a chemical or ‘analyte’ of interest may be appropriate for use in the present apparatus 100. Table 1 below provides non-limiting examples of such sensing materials 137 and the identifier used to refer thereto.Table 1of the disclosure will be chosen based on its ability to present a response to one or more chemicals of interest. The sensing material 137 may consist of a mixture of compounds intendedto facilitate a reaction with the chemical of interest. Therefore, the choice of sensing material 137 will be dictated by the nature of the chemical of interest. In embodiments of the apparatus 100 of the disclosure in which multiple cartridges 135 are employed then a user may select a different sensing material 137 for each cartridge 135 with the selection made on the basis of detecting one or more or none of the chemicals of interest from the same or different classes. For example, if the detection process is targeting illegal drugs, then multiple sensing materials 137 may be selected, each of which is suitable for responding or not responding to an illegal drug of interest. In embodiments, multiple sensing materials 137 may be selected which are suitable for use to detect an illegal drug of interest thereby adding further validation to the detection process. It will be appreciated that sensing material 137 can also be chosen to provide a response to chemicals that are not of interest.

[0090] In certain embodiments therefore, the chemical of interest may be a drug. The drug may be, in embodiments, a controlled substance. As used herein, the term "controlled substance" refers to any substance whose manufacture, possession, and / or use are regulated by a government. In some embodiments, the drug may be a controlled substance not prohibited by governmental regulation but may be diverted for illicit purposes. For example, the drug may be a controlled prescription drug diverted for illicit purposes, i.e. without prescription. Drugs may include narcotics such as heroin and oxycodone, stimulants such as cocaine and methamphetamine, depressants such as benzodiazepines, hallucinogens such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), cannabis, "bath salts" containing amphetamine-like chemicals such as methylenedioxypyrovalerone, mephedrone and pyrovalerone, and the like. In some embodiments, the drug may be an amine-containing compound. In some embodiments, the drug may be a phenol-containing compound. Examples of drugs include, but are not limited to, tetrahydrocannabinol (or delta-9 THC) as found in marijuana, hashish, hashish oil, or cannabis, methamphetamine, amphetamine, crack cocaine, cocaine, heroin (including black tar heroin), 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (or Ecstasy), oxycodone, morphine, psilocybin, psilocin (as found in psychedelic mushrooms), lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), hydrocodone, benzodiazepines, salts thereof, or mixtures thereof. Mixtures can include a drug and a cutting agent. It should be understood that the determination of drugs such as narcotics is described herein by way of example only.

[0091] It will be appreciated that the nature of the chemical of interest for detection by the apparatus 100 is not particularly limited and is accommodated for by the choice of the sensing material 137. Other types of chemical agents of interest beyond illegal drugs / narcotics may also be determined, including, but not limited to, explosive agents, chemical warfare agents,petrochemical agents and the like. Sensing materials 137 capable of determining explosives are known in the art, and are described in, for example, U.S. Patent No. 7,208,122; U.S. 7,041,910; U.S. 7,759,127; U.S. Publication No. 2005 / 0147534; U.S. 7,700,366; WO 2008 / 039529; W02008 / 019086; U.S. 7,666,684; and U.S. 7,799,573, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0092] Therefore, in embodiments, the chemical being detected is or is derived from a drug; an explosive or a chemical warfare agent.

[0093] The chemical of interest may be directly sampled, for example, by analysing the vapor proximate an object or area of interest as the fluid. In some embodiments, a surface of an object of interest may be physically contacted or swiped, and the swipe or vapor proximate the swipe may be analysed. In some cases, the chemical of interest, object suspected of containing the chemical of interest, or a swipe that has contacted the chemical of interest or object may be placed in a sealed vessel, and the airspace within the vial may be tested. In some embodiments, as required, the chemical of interest, object suspected of containing the chemical of interest, or a swipe that has contacted the chemical of interest or object may be heated so as to form the fluid.

[0094] The chemical may thereby be included within a fluid. The fluid may be a liquid or gas. In some embodiments, the fluid is aerosol droplets. In some embodiments the chemical is preconcentrated using a preconcentrator material or apparatus. A heating unit 180 as described herein may act as such a preconcentrator. In some cases the chemical in the fluid may be formed by a reaction of the chemical of interest. The body 110 may comprise fluid supply structure 112. The fluid may be introduced to the cartridge 135 via fluid supply structure 112. In use, the apparatus 100 may be positioned and / or the fluid may move so that the fluid may be introduced to the cartridge via the fluid supply structure 112. The fluid supply structure 112 may include an inlet 114, as shown in Figures 1, 2, and 3, defined in the body 110. The fluid supply structure 112 may include a channel between the inlet 114 and the sensing cartridge 135.

[0095] The fluid supply structure 112 may include one or more channels between the inlet 114 and the sensing cartridges 135. As shown in Figure 1, the fluid supply structure 112 may include two channels between the inlet 114 and the sensing cartridges 135. The channels may be made from materials that minimize sorption of the chemical of interest. Preferred channel materials include glass, Teflon, engineering plastics such as polyacetal polymers (POM-C and POM-H) and polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and metals with POM-C more preferred. It will be appreciated that different combinations of the materials can be used together. The cartridge 135 materials may be the same or different to the materials of channels. In some embodiments, cartridge 135 may comprise an engineering plastic, such as POM-C.

[0096] The number of channels of fluid supply structure 112 used may be dependent on the number of sensing cartridges 135 required. For example, a fluid supply structure 112 comprising a single channel may be preferred for an apparatus 100 comprising of 1 to 4 sensing cartridges 135; while 2 parallel channels may be preferred for a device 100 comprising of 5 to 8 sensing cartridges. Figures 2, 3, and 4 show an apparatus 100 with a fluid supply structure 112 comprising a split into two channels from the inlet 114, the apparatus 100 suitable for receiving up to 8 sensing cartridges 135. Figure 2 (a) shows 2 cartridges 135 received in two receiving portions 130 of the eight receiving portions 130 included in the device 100.

[0097] In some embodiments, fluid supply structure 112 may include an initial channel from the inlet 114 and then may be split into multiple channels towards the sensing cartridges 135. As shown in Figure 3, fluid supply structure 112 may split into 2 channels. The initial channel may be split evenly so that the flow down each channel is essentially the same. In some embodiments, the initial part of the channel directly after the inlet 114 is designed to minimize outside light reaching the sensing cartridges 135. This can be achieved by the use of light baffles in the channel or the channel containing turns and / or being made of light absorbing, non-reflecting materials. The dimensions and shape of the inlet 114 and / or channel can be varied between embodiments, to optimize the flow of the fluid to the sensing cartridges 135. In some embodiments, the channel is composed of a tube with an inner diameter in the range of 0.1-1 mm. In some embodiments, the channel has a square or rectangular cross-section. In some embodiments, the dimensions of the channels is 2 mm x 6 mm.

[0098] The sensing material 137 may be removably included in the cartridge 135.

[0099] A plurality of cartridges 135 of the apparatus 100 may be configured to contain a different sensing material 137 with respect to each other, for example a plurality of sensing materials 137 may be different compounds to each other. The use of a single apparatus 100 with different sensing materials 137 contained within may be advantageous to assist a processor 120 to determine the presence of a chemical or various chemicals in a fluid. The use of a single apparatus 100 with different sensing materials 137 contained within may be advantageous to assist a processor 120 to determine the classification of a chemical or various chemicals in a fluid from a plurality of potentially present chemicals in the fluid.

[0100] In some embodiments, one or more cartridges 135 of the apparatus 100 may not have a sensing material 137 contained within. In some embodiments, a plurality of cartridges 135 of the apparatus 100 may comprise the same sensing material 137, for example a plurality of sensing materials 137 may be the same compound as each other. These combinations of cartridges 135and sensing materials 137 may be advantageous so as to reduce the probability of false positive detections of a chemical in the fluid.

[0101] In some embodiments, the apparatus 100 further includes fluid outlet structure 132 for allowing the fluid to be discharged from the cartridge 135 and the body 110. Fluid outlet structure 132 may include an outlet 134 for discharging fluid from the body 110.

[0102] The apparatus 100 may include a fluid flow control element 150. The fluid flow control element 150 may be located proximate to the outlet 134 of the fluid outlet structure 132, as shown in Figure 1. Thereby, the fluid flow control element 150 may be coupled to pump or draw from the fluid outlet structure 132.

[0103] The fluid flow control element 150 may include a variable rate flow system that draws the fluid from the inlet 114, through the channels, cartridges 135, and fluid outlet structure 132 so as to be discharged at the outlet 134. It will however be appreciated that this flow can be achieved in a number of ways, non-limiting examples of which include use of a blower 150 or pump 150. A preferred embodiment is a peristaltic pump and in a further preferred embodiment the desired flow can be achieved using a flowmeter and a feedback loop.

[0104] The apparatus 100 may include a plurality of fluid flow control elements 150, as shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 1, a fluid flow control element 150 may be located proximate to the inlet of the cartridge 135. Accordingly, the fluid flow control element 150 may be a fluid flow control element 150 as a flow diffuser such as a pillar or pillars disposed at the fluid entrance of the cartridge 135 to maximise the interaction of the sensing material 137 to the fluid flow. Maximising the interaction may lead to an optimal response.

[0105] The apparatus 100 may include user input and output 170. User input and output 170 may be communicatively coupled with processor 120. Input and output 170 may include a display 220. The display may be mounted within a mounting portion 220 on the body 110. User input and output 170 may also include buttons 230 on or protruding from the body 110 for receiving user input to control processor 120. Apparatus 100 may include a printed circuit board for mounting at least one of: display 220 or buttons 230. Apparatus 100 may include an input output cover 332 which may cover and / or house buttons 230 and display 220. The input output cover may form part of the body 110.

[0106] Body 110 may include a removable or adjustable cover 410, which may be hinged, as shown in Figure 4, or slidably adjustable. The cover 410 may assist covering and enclosing body 110. The cover 410 may act to seal the body 110 when a cartridge 135 or cartridges 135 are received therein. In some embodiments, the cover 410 may be slidably engaged or include one or more other mechanisms for removably or partly removably attaching with the body 110. Theinside of the cover 410 may include a rubber lining 420 on the inside for sealing the body 110 from ingress. The cover 410 and lining 420 may also assist securing the cartridges 135 within the body 110.

[0107] As shown in Figure 3, body 110 may include a cover portion 335 and intermediate body structure 337 which together may form the receiving portions 130. Cover portion 335 may be joined together or mounted on structure 337. Cover 335 may include exterior upper wall of body 110. Body 110 may also include a main structure 310 for mounting or containing at least one of: excitation devices 140, luminescence extrication structure 162, measurement device 160, fluid supply structure 112, fluid inlet 114, fluid outlet structure 132, or fluid outlet 134. Main structure 310 may include the exterior side walls of the body 110 and in some embodiments may comprise the fluid flow control element 150 and / or the electromagnetic energy supply structure 142.

[0108] Apparatus 100 may include a power source 190 to supply power to the components of apparatus 100, cartridge 135 and optionally heating unit 180. Apparatus 100 may be configured to house power source 190 in body 110. Apparatus 100 may house printed circuit board 390. PCB 390 may be configured to mount at least one of: processor 120 or memory 125, and may be electrically connected to supply power to and / or to communicatively couple respective mounted components. Body 110 may include a lower casing 380 for containing or mounting power source 190 and / or printed circuit board 390. Lower casing 380 may include the exterior lower wall of the body 110.

[0109] Apparatus 100 may also include an internal temperature and / or humidity sensor.

[0110] Examples of components of the apparatus 100 include: receiving portion 130, excitation device 140, fluid supply structure 112, fluid outlet structure 132, electromagnetic supply structure 142, luminescence extrication structure 162, fluid flow control element 150, user input and output 170, processor 120, memory 125, and measurement device 160.

[0111] The following description of some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with respect to Figures 5, 6, and 7.

[0112] Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of the cartridge 135 of apparatus 100 according to some embodiments. Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the cartridge 135 according to some embodiments. Figure 7 shows an exploded isometric view of the cartridge 135 according to some embodiments. As described above the cartridge 135 is removably inserted into the receiving portion 130 of the body 110 of the apparatus 100.

[0113] As shown in Figures 5, 6, and 7, the cartridge 135 comprises a cartridge housing 535. Cartridge housing 535 may have a generally rectangular profile. Cartridge housing 535 may include an upper portion 620 and a lower portion 610. The cartridge housing 535 is configured toreceive the electromagnetic energy generated from the excitation device 140 of the apparatus 100. The cartridge housing 535 may comprise the sensing material 137. The cartridge housing 535 may be configured for removably receiving sensing material 137. The cartridge housing 535 may be configured to receive the fluid so as to expose the sensing material 137 to the fluid and therewith present a luminescent property when the electromagnetic energy is introduced.

[0114] The cartridge housing 535 may include an aperture for allowing the sensing material 137 to receive the electromagnetic energy from the excitation device 140 and an aperture to permit measurement of the luminescent property by the measurement device 160. The housing 535 of the sensing cartridge 135 may further define a channel allowing fluid flow connection between the channels of fluid supply structure 112 and the fluid outlet structure 132 with a geometry optimised for fluid flow through the cartridge 135 and interaction with the sensing material 137. The cartridge housing 535 may be made from a material that is different from the fluid supply structure 112 and / or the fluid outlet structure 132. In one embodiment the channel through the cartridge 135 is substantially linear. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the channel in the cartridge 135 may be rectangular in profile.

[0115] The cartridge housing 535 may include its respective energy supply structure 542 for guiding the received electromagnetic energy from the excitation source 140 to the sensing material 137. The energy supply structure 542 may comprise the aperture. For example, the aperture may be defined in an underside portion of the cartridge housing 535 through the lower portion 610. In some other embodiments, energy supply structure 542 may include optics for guiding the electromagnetic energy received from the excitation source 140 to the sensing material 137.

[0116] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the cartridge housing 535 may include luminescence extrication structure 562 configured for extricating luminescence presented by the sensing material 137 for measurement of a luminescent property thereof by a measurement device 160. The luminescence extrication structure 562 may be coupled or aligned with the guide 162 of the apparatus 100, when the cartridge 135 is received in the receiving portion 130. The luminescence extrication structure 562 may comprise an aperture. The luminescence extrication structure 562 may comprise optics for guiding luminescence via the luminescence extrication structure 162 to the measurement device 160.

[0117] In some embodiments, the cartridge housing 535 includes fluid supply structure 512 for introducing fluid into the housing 535. Fluid supply structure 512 may comprise an aperture. Housing 535 may be formed to define fluid supply structure 512. The fluid supply structure 512may be coupled or aligned with the fluid supply structure 112 of apparatus 100 when cartridge 135 is received in the receiving portion 130.

[0118] In some embodiments, the cartridge housing 535 includes fluid outlet structure 532 for allowing fluid to flow from the housing 535. Fluid outlet structure 532 may comprise an aperture. Housing 535 may be formed to define fluid outlet structure 532. The fluid outlet structure 532 may be coupled or aligned with the fluid outlet structure 132 of apparatus 100 when cartridge 135 is received in the receiving portion 130.

[0119] In some embodiments, fluid supply structure 512 and fluid outlet structure 532 comprises a single channel defined in housing 535, the channel extending from one outer surface portion of the cartridge housing 535 to another outer surface portion of the cartridge housing 535. Each outer surface portion defining an aperture as the inlet and outlet of the channel respectively, and therewith may be located on opposite sides of the cartridge housing 535. In some embodiments, as observable in Figures 2 and 4, multiple cartridge 135 receiving portions 130 may be aligned so that when cartridges 135 are received therein, the fluid outlet structure 532 and fluid supply structure 512 of each cartridge 135 in a row may be aligned to form a channel to allow fluid to flow through each cartridge 135 of the row successively. Therefore, a first cartridge 135 of each cartridge row may connect or align with fluid supply structure 112. In particular, fluid supply structure 512 of the first cartridge 135 of a cartridge row may connect or align with a channel of fluid supply structure 112. An end cartridge 135 of the same row may then connect or align with fluid outlet structure 132. In particular, fluid outlet structure 532 of the end cartridge 135 of the same row may connect or align with a channel of fluid outlet structure 132. In some embodiments, baffles or other flow manipulation means may be included within the channel, fluid outlet structure 532 and / or fluid supply structure 512 of one or more cartridges 135 to change the flow of the fluid.

[0120] In some embodiments, the housing 535 may comprise insignia 627, such as an arrow and / or colouring to identify an orientation and / or position for inserting the cartridge in a receiving portion 130 of apparatus 100.

[0121] In some embodiments, the cartridge housing 535 comprises a substrate 537. Cartridge housing 535 may house the substrate 537. The sensing material 137 is deposited on the substrate 537. In some embodiments, the sensing material 137 is provided as a thin film coating on the substrate 537. The substrate 537 may be solid and transparent. The term "transparent" refers to the ability of the substrate 537 to at least partially allow transmission of electromagnetic therethrough to the sensing material 137 deposited thereon. The substrate 537 with the depositedsensing material 137 may be referred to as an optical sensing element. The optical sensing element may be characterised as a solid state system.

[0122] The substrate 537 for the sensing material 137 can be composed of plastic or glass with it being at least partially optically transparent preferred. The substrate 537 can be planar or a tube. Glass and in particular fused silica substrates that are planar are preferred. A substrate thickness of 0.5-1 mm is preferred. A substrate area of 0.64 cm2is preferred. The sensing material 137 or materials 137 in the cartridges 135 could be non-polymeric, dendrimeric, polymeric including formulations of two or more materials, including plasticisers and / or catalysts. The sensing materials 137 can be deposited onto the substrates 537 by thermal evaporation or solution coating techniques with spin-coating and blade coating preferred. Individual substrates 537 can be coated but in a preferred embodiment large area prepatterned substrates are coated and then divided into individual coated substrates 537.

[0123] The sensing material 137 will typically be provided as a continuous layer (coating) on the substrate 537. To produce the coating the sensing material 137 may be dissolved in a solvent and applied to the substrate 537 using conventional means for coating. The solvent is then removed leaving the sensing material 137 as a coating on the substrate 537. Typically the coating will be a film having a thickness of 100 nm, or less. In some embodiments, the film has a thickness of 10 nm to 100 nm or 50 nm to 100 nm, for example 50 nm to 80 nm. In some embodiments, the coating is a thin coating of 20 nm to 50 nm, for example 20 nm to 30 nm, or 25 nm to 35 nm.

[0124] A desirable property of the optical sensing element is that it is non-scattering when irradiated, as takes place during the detection process. Preferred substrates 537 are thereby at least partially transparent. It will however be appreciated by persons skilled in the relevant art that in certain applications and configurations textured and reflective substrates 537 may also be useful.

[0125] As discussed above, in some embodiments the response from the exposure of the sensing material 137 to the chemical is reversible. Reversibility typically occurs when the sensing material 137 recovers its original response at least in part after no longer being exposed to the chemical. Accordingly, in such circumstances, the sensing material 137 may be used again. It will be appreciated that an activator may be required to promote reversibility. Reversibility may be encouraged by heating the sensing material 137 via for example, heating module 570.

[0126] The sensing cartridge 135 may comprise a memory 525. The memory 525 may be accessible to the apparatus processor 120. The memory 525 may be accessible to the apparatusprocessor 120 when sensing cartridge 135 is received in the receiving portion 130. The memory 525 is configured with data indicating an operating configuration. The operating configuration may include at least one of an indicator of a category of chemical, an indicator of the sensing material, at least one frequency of operation of the excitation device 140, and data for processing a signal of the measurement device 160. The memory 525 may be reconfigured or reprogrammed with data indicating a second operating configuration, for example when changing the sensing material 137 in the cartridge 135. Therefore, sensing cartridge 135 may be referred to as a programmable replaceable sensing cartridge 135.

[0127] The cartridge 135 may comprise a heating module 570. The heating module 570 may be used to optimise the response of the sensing material 137 during exposure to a chemical of interest. This may include both the response of the sensing material 137 during exposure to a chemical and removal of the chemical from the cartridge 135 and apparatus 100 as required. The cartridge 135 can be heated between about 20 °C and 120 °C, more preferred between about 20°C and 65 °C and more preferred between about 20 °C and 45 °C. There is an advantage to having the cartridge 135 heated above room temperature (above about 20°C) to provide a stable environment in which the sensing material 137 responds to exposure to a chemical and thereby for the apparatus 100 to detect the presence of the chemical.

[0128] In some embodiments, memory 525 is configured with data indicating a heating configuration. Accordingly, apparatus processor 120 may be configured to control the heating module 570 based on reading the heating configuration contained in memory 525.

[0129] Where cartridges 135 are used individually they can be placed in any of the available receiving portions 130 as the cartridge identity and configuration information is stored in their programmable memory 525 and read by the apparatus processor 120.

[0130] As shown in Figure 7, upper portion 620 and lower portion 610 may be removably attached to form housing 535. A printed circuit board 735 (PCB) may be housed within housing 535. The PCB 735 can bear the relevant components of the cartridge 135 and may thereby be referred to as a PCB assembly. The components mounted on the PCB 735 may include at least one of memory 525, substrate 537, or heating module 570.

[0131] Housing 535 may include electrical contacts for electrically and / or communicatively coupling to electrical contacts of the body 110 of apparatus 100 to enable processor 120 to control components of the PCB assembly 735 and read from memory 525. It will be appreciated that the PCB may comprise electrical connections as known in the art to enable the aforementioned.

[0132] Figure 8 shows a schematic diagram of the heating unit 180 according to some embodiments. Figure 9 shows a side view of the heating unit 180 according to some embodiments. Figure 10 shows an isometric view of the apparatus 100 including a modular heating unit 180, according to some embodiments. Figure 11 shows an exploded isometric view of the heating unit 180 according to some embodiments. The modular heating unit 180 may be configured for vaporising a sample so that apparatus 100 can detect a chemical from the vaporised sample as the fluid.

[0133] The heating unit 180 includes a housing 880. The housing 880 is configured to attach to and detach from the body 110 of apparatus 100. Housing 880 may include an upper casing 1182. Housing 880 may include a lower casing 1184.

[0134] The heating unit 180 includes a heat source 830. The heat source 830 may be included in the housing 880. The heating unit 180 includes a sample bearing portion 840 in the housing 880. The heating unit 180 is configured to actuate the heat source 830 to heat a sample 845 on the sample bearing portion 840 to generate a fluid and introduce the fluid to the inlet of the body 110 of the apparatus 100. Sample 845 may be included on a swab, and the swab with the sample 845 may be included on the sample bearing portion 840. Heating unit may contain a power source 850 configured to supply power to heating source 830.

[0135] In some embodiments, heating unit 180 may be electrically connected to apparatus 100. Heating unit 180 may include a port 914 for electrically connecting to apparatus 100. Therewith, heating unit 180 may be communicatively coupled with processor 120. In some further embodiments, electrical connections allow apparatus 100 to supply power to heating unit 180. Processor 120 may be configured to send a signal for actuating heat source 840 to heat the sample on the sample bearing portion 840.

[0136] Heating unit 180 may comprise printed circuit board 1120 (PCB). PCB 1120 may mount and / or electrically connect electronic components, such as power source 850, electrical connection port 914 and heat source 830, for example. Housing 880 may house heat source 830 and power source 850. Housing 880 may house PCB 1120.

[0137] Heating unit 180 may include a spacer 916, which may assist mounting a heating unit 180 on a surface. Apparatus 100 may have corresponding spacers.

[0138] As shown in Figure 9, housing 880 may define an outlet 912 for allowing flow of fluid, such as vapor, from the heated sample 845 to the inlet 114 of apparatus 100. Outlet 912 may be defined in upper casing 1182.

[0139] Heating unit 180 may include a power source and be self-powered. In some other embodiments, heating unit 180 is powered via apparatus 100.

[0140] Figure 12 shows a schematic diagram of a system 1200 for detection of a chemical according to some embodiments.

[0141] System 1200 includes apparatus 100 and a server system 1205. Processor 120 is communicatively coupled with server system 1205 via communications link 1224.Communications link 1224 may include one or more network elements or mediums for allowing communications between apparatus 100 and server system 1205.

[0142] Apparatus 100 may include a communications unit 1290 to communicate with server system 1205 via communications link 1224.

[0143] In some embodiments, server system 1205 is configured to perform one or more processing steps otherwise performed by processor 120 as disclosed in the present disclosure. For example, server system 1205 may be configured to determine the presence of the chemical based on the signal received from the measurement device 160.

[0144] The server system 1205 may be configured to generate an output signal indicating the presence of the chemical for reception by an output module or device accessible to a user.

[0145] The server system 1205 may be configured to transmit the output signal to the apparatus 100 for display on the user input and output 170. In some embodiments, the server system 1205 is configured to transmit the output signal via communications link 1274 to a user device 1270 for viewing by its respective user.

[0146] Communications links 1224 and 1274 may include at least one of: wireless, mobile, radio access, optical fibre networks, satellite, internet, or enterprise network elements, for example.

[0147] Figure 13 shows a flow chart of a method 1300 for detection of a chemical according to some embodiments.

[0148] It will be readily apparent to the skilled person that some embodiments with respect to other figures of the present disclosure are applicable with the method 1300. For example, processor 120 is described within method 1300, however one or more steps of method 1300 may instead be performed by server system 1205.

[0149] In some embodiments, method 1300 begins at 1310, wherein processor 120 executing code in memory 125, is configured to acquire operation data regarding an attached cartridge 135.

[0150] Processor 120 may be configured to then send a signal to the cartridge 135 to actuate its heating module 570 at 1320.

[0151] Processor 120 may be configured to then send a signal to excitation device 140 to supply electromagnetic energy to sensing material 137 contained in the cartridge 135 at 1330.

[0152] Fluid may then be introduced into the cartridge at 1340. In some embodiments, method 1300 may begin whilst fluid has already been introduced into the cartridge, thereby 1340 may be performed before 1310.

[0153] Processor 120 may be configured to then receive a signal from the measurement device 160 indicative of a luminescent property of the sensing material 137 at 1350.

[0154] Processor 120 may then determine a presence of the chemical, based on the received signal.

[0155] Processor 120 may then be configured to send a signal to an output device, such as user input and output 170 or user device 1270, the signal indicative of a presence of the chemical, by example as a classification of the chemical, at 1390.

[0156] In some embodiments, processor 120 may be configured to perform method 1300 again with respect to a different cartridge 135 of apparatus 100. When performing the method 1300 again, there may not be a need to perform 1340, as fluid may already have been introduced to all cartridges 135 of apparatus 100 in a prior performance of method 1300. Processor 120 may be configured to perform method 1300 for each cartridge 135 of apparatus 100 sequentially.Processor 120 may repeat the cycle of performing the method 1300 for each cartridge 135 of apparatus 100. Processor 120 may complete the cycle in about 1 second. In some embodiments, one or more calibration steps may precede a step of determining a presence of the chemical. A calibration step may include any number of calibration operations, including preheating of the heating module 570 and baseline correction and / or classification operations performed by the processor 120.

[0157] It will further be appreciated the steps of the method 1300 provided for need not necessarily be executed sequentially or in the order described herein. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the apparatus 100, associated system 1200 and method 1300 may be operated or performed in a continuous, semi-continuous or batch fashion. By non-limiting example, the apparatus 100 can be operated such that the fluid flows continuously through the fluid supply structure 112, cartridge 135 and fluid outlet structure 132 while detection is performed.Example Detection

[0158] Figure 14 shows a table 1400 of results according to some embodiments with chemicals as illicit drugs: Two different cartridges 135 (see labels of rows of table 1400) were used to successfully identify between two illicit drugs (see labels of columns of table 1400), namely cocaine and methamphetamine (MA). The hydrochloric salts of cocaine and MA were used for testing instead of the free base versions, as hydrochloric salts are the forms of these drugs that are typically encountered in law enforcement operations.

[0159] The chemicals were tested in their solid forms using heating unit 180 where PTFE swab cards were used to collect 1 pg of each drug and were heated to 160 °C after inserted into the heating unit 180, also referred to as a ‘swab module’. The sensing materials 137 used for drug detection include 2-[(7-[9,9-di- / / -propyl-97 / -fluoren-2-yl }benzo[c][l,2,5]thiadiazol-4- yl)methylene]malononitrile (K12) and 2-[(7-{9,9-bis[2-(2 -methoxy ethoxy)ethyl]-97 / -fluoren-2- yl}benzo[c][l,2,5]thiadiazol-4-yl)methylene]malononitrile (JED). Both materials were excited at 480 nm and the luminescent property from each cartridge 135 was measured by the measurement device 160. The signal from the measurement device 160 indicating the luminescent property is received by the processor 120, and processor 120 determined the presence of the illicit drugs from a change as a function of the integral over the half-maximum wavelength range over time, thereby indicating a change in PL intensity over time, which identified from the first order derivative in the PL intensity over time. Both cartridges 135 were held at 30 °C and the fluid flow control element 150 was operating at an inlet flow rate of 100 mL / min. The combination of responses in each cartridge 135 towards these chemicals or ‘drug analytes’ allowed rapid identification of both target analytes at 1 pg within 1 minute.

[0160] Figure 15 shows a table 1500 of results according to some embodiments with chemicals as Chemical Warfare Agents: Two cartridges 135 containing different sensing materials 137 (see labels of rows of table 1500) were used to identify between G-series and V-series CWAs (see labels of columns of table 1500). Di-z o-propylfluorophosphonate (DFP) was used as a simulant for G-series nerve agents and VO was used as a simulant for V-series nerve agents.

[0161] The chemicals or ‘analytes’ were tested in their diluted vapour phase with nitrogen used as a carrier gas and therewith no heating unit 180 was used. The sensing materials 137 used for the CWA identification were 2-[(7-{9,9-di-w-hexyl-9J / -fluoren-2-yl)benzo[c][l,2,5]thiadiazol-4- yl)methylene]malononitrile (AL04-09) and (IE, l'E)-N, -V-fl, 4-phenylene]bis[l-(2- {[triethylsilyl]oxy}phenyl)methanimine] (SQF1429), where SQF1429 was excited at 390 nm and AL04-09 was excited at 480 nm and the luminescent property from each cartridge 135 was measured by the measurement device 160. The signal from the measurement device 160 indicating the luminescent property is received by the processor 120, and processor 120 determined the presence of CWAs from a change as a function of the integral over the halfmaximum wavelength range over time, thereby indicating a change in PL intensity over time, which was identified from the first order derivative in the PL intensity with respect to time. Both cartridges 135 were operating at 30 °C and the fluid flow control element 150 was operating at an inlet flow rate of 100 mL / min. The combination of responses from each cartridge 135 towardsthe chemicals allowed accurate identification of DFP down to 1 ppm (testing against the HF impurity in DFP) and VO down to 30 ppb within 1 minute of analyte exposure.

[0162] Figure 16 shows a table 1600 of results according to some embodiments with chemicals as Explosives: Three cartridges 135 containing different sensing materials 137 (see labels of rows of table 1600) were used to identify between low volatility nitro-aromatic explosives and their high volatility impurities, and peroxide explosives (see labels of columns of table 1600). 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene (TNT) was used as an example of low volatility nitro-explosives although other low volatility explosives such as DNAN and DMNB have also been tested to show the same response. -Nitrotoluene (pNT) was used as an example of high volatility explosive impurity, and hydrogen peroxide from TATP degradation was used as an example of peroxide explosives. pNT and hydrogen peroxide were tested in diluted vapour with nitrogen as carrier gas. TNT was tested in its solid form using the heating unit 180 where a paper swab card was used to collect 100 ng of TNT and was heated to 85 °C when inserted into the heating unit 180.

[0163] The sensing materials 137 used for the explosive detections are tTris[4-(7-{4,4"-bis[(2- ethylhexyl)oxy]-[l,l':3',l"-terphenyl]-5’-yl}-9,9-di-«-propyl-9J / -fluoren-2-yl)phenyl]amine (YG1-111), 2,2',7,7’-tetrakis[3,6-bis(9,9-di-«-propyl-9J / -fluoren-2-yl)-9J / -carbazol-9-yl]-9,9'- spirobi [fluorene] (COPE#9) and 9,9-di-w-propyl-7-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-l,3,2-dioxaborolan-2- yl)-9J / -fluorene-2-carbonitrile (SQF0724B). All three sensing materials were excited at 390 nm and the luminescent property presented from each cartridge 135 was measured by the measurement device 160. The signal from the measurement device 160 indicating the luminescent property is received by the processor 120, and processor 120 determined the presence of the explosives from a change as a function of the integral over the half-maximum wavelength range over time, thereby indicating a change in PL intensity over time, which identified from the first order derivative in the PL intensity over time.

[0164] YG1-111 and COPE#9 were operating at 30 °C and SQF0724B was operating at room temperature (around 25 °C), and the fluid flow control element 150 was operating with an inlet flow rate of 100 mL / min. The combination of responses from each cartridge 135 towards different chemicals or ‘analytes’ allowed accurate differentiation of TNT over pNT down to a concentration of 100 ng, as well as TATP down to a concentration of 300 ppb within 1 minute of analyte exposure.

[0165] Figure 17 shows a table 1700 of results according to some embodiments pertaining to Multiclass chemical identification: It will be appreciated that the apparatus 100 allows for suitable versatility such that it is not only capable of detecting chemicals or ‘analytes’ within the same class, but also to identify chemicals from different categories against common interferants.As a demonstration, three cartridges 135 with different sensing materials 137 (see labels of rows of table 1700) were used to identify between explosives, CWAs, an illicit drug and an interferant (see labels of columns of table 1700). 2,4-Dinitrotoluene (DNT), a by-product of TNT synthesis and a commonly present impurity in TNT, was used as an example for explosives. DFP was used as a G-series nerve agent simulant, and MA hydrochloride was selected as the illicit drug. A deodorant was selected as the interferant. DNT and DFP were tested in diluted vapour with nitrogen as the carrier gas. MA was tested in its solid form using the heating unit 180 where a PTFE swab card was used to collect 1 pg of MA and was heated to 160 °C when inserted into the heating unit 180.

[0166] The sensing materials 137 used for the detection include YG1-111, SQF 1429, and 2- [(7-{9,9-bis[2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethyl]-9J7-fluoren-2-yl}benzo[c][l,2,5]thiadiazol-4- yl)methylene]malononitrile (JED). Materials YG1-111 and SQF1429 were excited at 390 nm, and JED was excited at 480 nm, and the luminescent property from each cartridge 135 was measured by the measurement device 160. The signal from the measurement device 160 indicating the luminescent property is received by the processor 120, and processor 120 determined the presence or otherwise of the various chemicals from a change as a function of the integral over the half-maximum wavelength range over time, thereby indicating a change in PL intensity over time, which identified from the first order derivative in the PL intensity over time. All cartridges 135 were operating at 30 °C with an inlet flow rate of 100 mL / min. The combination of responses from each cartridge 135 towards different chemicals or ‘analytes’ allowed accurate identification of each individual analyte against all other chemicals and interferents.

[0167] Figure 19 reflects how algorithms can be used to improve a limit of determination of the presence of a chemical. The luminescence presented by a sensing material 137 and continuously measured by the measurement device 160, as a luminescent property, is received by the processor 120 as a signal comprising ‘raw PL data’. As shown in the upper panel of Figure 19, the raw PL data has a sloping baseline with three narrow segments each within line pairs showing when the sensing material 137 is exposed to a fluid containing a chemical of interest. Taking the gradient from the raw PL data (shown in the middle panel of Figure 19) may not yet allow for detection of the presence of the chemical in the fluid without high incidence of false positive detections. In this example, a gradient based technique may identify 11 events of which three are true positives (as exemplified by threshold solid horizontal line shown in the middle panel of Figure 19). It can be seen from Figure 19 that changing this threshold may also not eliminate the possibility of a false positive event. In contrast, application of the CUSUM basedmethod (shown in the lower panel of Figure 19) enables identification of all three events correctly with no false positives when a threshold was set at 3 (as exemplified by threshold solid horizontal line shown in the lower panel of Figure 19).

[0168] Figures 20 and 21 provide a non-limiting exemplification of how a signal received from a measurement device 160 concerning different sensing materials 137, identified as ‘sensors’ 1 through 5 in Figure 20, exposed to different chemicals, can be used to determine the presence of various chemicals. In this example a response of five different sensing materials 137 (‘sensors’ 1-5) to eight different chemicals or ‘analytes’ were measured: methamphetamine (MA), 3,4- methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA), cocaine, fentanyl, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), aspirin, caffeine, and paracetamol. The hydrochloric salts of MA, MDA, cocaine, and fentanyl were used. Each chemical or ‘analyte’ was introduced at five different concentrations 0.1 pg, 0.5 pg, 1 pg, 2 pg and 10 pg. The five sensing materials 137 were selected such that the corresponding cartridges 135 constituted an array when received in the apparatus 100 which may allow the apparatus 100 to detect eight distinct analytes. Data comprising different luminescent properties exhibited by each sensing material 137, shown for exposure to fentanyl in Figure 20 (a) and for MA in Figure 20 (b), and measured by the measurement device 160 allows the presence of the analytes to be detected by performing appropriate classification methods by the processor 120.

[0169] Figure 21 shows how the classification method performed by processor 120 may improve the apparatus’ 100 accuracy in detecting the presence of a chemical in a fluid. As suggested in Figure 21 (a), by performing linear discriminant analysis (LDA) to the data established as described above, a mean accuracy of 75.8% may be achieved. LDA may however perform less well when the respective concentrations of chemicals of interest in the fluid being introduced vary. This is indicated by the substantial class overlap in the LDA projection (Figure 21 (a)). Increased classification performance and thereby accuracy of detection may be obtained using time-series classification methods, specifically, ^-nearest neighbours (k = 1) with dynamic time warping (DTW).

[0170] Performing this method with the same data results in an overall mean classification accuracy of 93.3% as suggested in Figure 21 (b). The distance (or similarity) matrix shows (figure 21 (b)) pairwise DTW distances between all observations in the data (where smaller distance corresponds to high similarity) and illustrates good class separation across all the analytes.

[0171] Figures 22 to 28 show embodiments of a detachable filter 2210 and use with apparatus 100. The inlet 114 may be fitted with a detachable filter 2210 to condition the air entering the fluid supply structure 112. The detachable filter 2210 may include one or more materials tocondition air. The detachable filter 2210 may modify humidity. The detachable filter may reduce humidity. The one or more materials to condition air may induce dryness. The one or more materials to condition air may include a desiccant material, such as silica gel. The one or more materials to condition air may absorb moisture, for example, porous cotton. The one or detachable filter may include steel wool or porous cotton coated or infused with a desiccant material, such as potassium carbonate or calcium chloride. The one or more materials may include a hygroscopic and / or deliquescent material.

[0172] In some embodiments, as described by reference to Figures 22 to 25, the filter 2210 comprises a casing 2212 containing glass wool and / or silica gel beads, a plastic mesh and a cover, or plastic lid, 2214, and may be referred to as filter 2210(a) herein. The casing 2212 may be plastic. In one embodiment the filter 2210(a) consists of the plastic casing 2212 containing glass wool and silica gel beads, the plastic mesh and the plastic lid 2214.

[0173] Figure 22 shows an example of a detachable filter 2210(a) for the regulation of airflow humidity and temperature attached to the inlet 114 of the apparatus 100 (left photo). The filter 2210(a) comprises plastic material. The filter 2210(a) comprises a cover 2214 of the casing 2212 of the filter detached to reveal the filter 2210 on the inside. The filter 2210(a) may consist of a plastic casing body 2212 containing glass wool and silica gel beads, a plastic mesh and a plastic lid 2214.

[0174] The inlet 114 of apparatus 100 may be configured to receive detachable filter 2210(a). In some embodiments, the inlet 114 and / or detachable filter 2210(a) are configured to attach and detach from each other. The inlet 114 and / or detachable filter 2210(a) may include fittings, connectors, adhesives, or locking mechanisms for detachably connecting to each other, such as a luer lock or luer slip design, for example.

[0175] Another two filters 2210(a) are shown in the right photo: one filter 2210(a) with the cover 2214 attached to the casing 2212, a second filter with cover 2214 detached from casing 2212. Lid may be shown in Figure 22 to have a cone shape but is not limited thereto, and may be flat and configured to have a wall perpendicular to the casing 2212 when attached for example.

[0176] Figure 23 shows the effect of a detachable filter 2210(a) composed of plastic casing body 2212 containing glass wool and silica gel beads, a plastic mesh and a plastic lid 2214 on the response of the apparatus 100 to a change in surrounding temperature from room temperature to -20 °C to room temperature without (left figure) and with (right figure) the filter 2210 in place. In both cases, the sensing material of the device was exposed to an analyte which induced a luminescence quenching response.

[0177] As can be observed when the apparatus 100 does not include filter 2210(a) (left figure), when placed in the refrigerator for approximately 2 minutes, the rate of change of the photo response of the sensing material initially drastically drops before stagnating, then when taken out of the refrigerator the sensing material further quenches.

[0178] Figure 24 shows the effect of a detachable filter 2210(a) composed of plastic casing body containing glass wool and silica gel beads, a plastic mesh and a plastic lid on the processed signal of the apparatus 100 to a change in surrounding temperature from room temperature to -20 °C to room temperature. In comparison, without the filter 2210(a) the signal as the result of the temperature change exceeds the triggering threshold leading to a false positive detection event.

[0179] Figure 25 shows the negligible impact of a detachable filter 2210(a) composed of plastic casing body containing glass wool and silica gel beads, a plastic mesh and a plastic lid on the signal of the apparatus 100 to vapours of MeBr at ~50 (bottom figure) and -200 ppm (top figure) generated via a vapour delivery system. The testing shown in tables of Figure 25 was tested at about 40% relative humidity. The exemplary sensing material of Figures 23 to 25 was JK0221.

[0180] With reference to Figures 26 to 28, in some other embodiments, the filter 2210 may comprise of porous cotton, steel wool including a first deliquescent material, a second deliquescent material, and / or a metal lid, and may be referred to as filter 2210(b) herein.

[0181] Filter 2210(b) may be applied to apparatus 100 when also attaching and / or using heating unit 180.

[0182] Figure 26 shows a schematic diagram of a detachable filter 2210(b) for the regulation of airflow humidity and temperature attached to the inlet 114 of the apparatus 100.

[0183] Detachable filter 2210(b) is shown to include an inlet filter 2611. The inlet filter 2611 may include porous cotton or infused or coated steel wool. Porous cotton may be infused or coated. Inlet filter 2611 is shown to be removably placed, retained, and / or inserted in inlet 114 of apparatus 100. In some embodiments, inlet filter 2611 is removably placed, retained, and / or inserted in an outlet of heating unit 180. In some embodiments, inlet filter 2611 is placed, retained, and / or inserted in an inlet of the fluid supply structure 512 of cartridge 135 - removably or non-removably. The steel wool may be infused with the first deliquescent material. The first deliquescent material may be calcium chloride or potassium carbonate.

[0184] Figure 26 also shows an embodiment of heating unit 180 interfacing with apparatus 100. Heating unit 180 is shown to include a sample swab 2645 including a sample 845 of analyte. The sample swab 2645 may comprise a card structure. The material of sample swab 2645 may comprise PTFE (Teflon), paper, cardboard, filter paper, Nomex or fibreglass.

[0185] Detachable filter 2210(b) is shown to include a lid 2610. Lid 2610 may be configured to encase heating unit 180 to the apparatus 100. Lid 2610 may contact and / or form a sealing to the apparatus 100. Lid 2610 may be or form part of heating unit housing 880. Lid 2610 may shield the heating unit 180 from the environment so that the temperature does not drop. Lid 2610 may include a recess to insert swab 2645 bearing sample 845 into heating unit 180 for vaporisation. In one embodiment the lid is metal.

[0186] Detachable filter 2210(b) may also include a second deliquescent material 2601. Second deliquescent material 2601 may be included, attached to, or removable attached to the lid 2610. The second deliquescent material may be included in a tube. The tube may permit airflow, such as when used with a vapour delivery system. The second deliquescent material may be calcium chloride. The second deliquescent material may dry air within lid 2610, assisting humidification.

[0187] Heating unit 180 is turned on to vaporise the sample 845 as a fluid which passes through the inlet filter 2611. The filtered fluid passes through the fluid supply structure in the apparatus 100 and makes contact with the sensing material 137. When attached to the inlet 114, the filter 2210(b) modifies the humidity of the air entering the fluid supply structure 112. In another embodiment the filter 2210(b) can also modify the temperature of the air entering the fluid supply structure 112.

[0188] In another embodiment, the filter 2210(b) may consist of steel wool infused or coated with calcium chloride or potassium carbonate.

[0189] In a further embodiment, the filter 2210(b) may consist of steel wool coated with calcium chloride or potassium carbonate, and metal lid 2610.

[0190] Figure 27 shows an example of using porous cotton or steel wool-potassium carbonate filter or a metal cover to mitigate the impact of humidity on the signal of the sensing material SQF 1729 to the vapours generated from a methamphetamine hydrochloride (MA»HC1) salt sample. The porous cotton filter was attached upstream of the swab while the steel wool- potassium carbonate filter and the metal cover were attached to the inlet (nozzle). The MA»HC1 salt was vapourised at 170 °C using a heating unit.

[0191] Figure 28 shows an example of using a steel wool-potassium carbonate filter or a metal cover or the steel wool-potassium carbonate filter together with the metal cover to mitigate the impact of humidity (plotted in terms of dew point) on the signal of the sensing material SQF 1729 to methamphetamine hydrochloride salt with larger responses observed with the filters and cover in place. The filter and metal cover were attached to the inlet (nozzle). The MA-HC1 salt was vapourised at 170 °C using a heating unit 180.

[0192] Accordingly, the filter 2210(b) may assist the photoluminosity quenching response of sensing material 137, such as for SQF1729. This may assist indicating the presence of an analyte when apparatus 100 uses sensing materials 137, such as for SQF1729.

[0193] Figures 29 to 30 show structures suitable for bearing sensing material 137 and substrate 537.

[0194] Figure 29 shows a lower structure 2910 for an apparatus for detecting presence of a chemical in a fluid, according to some embodiments. Figure 30 shows a plurality of upper structures 3020(a)-(e) for an apparatus for detecting presence of a chemical in a fluid, according to some embodiments. Lower structure 2910 and upper structures 3020 may be combined to house sensing material 137 and substrate 537. Lower structure 2910 and upper structure 3020 may be included within apparatus 100 and / or cartridge housing 535.

[0195] Lower structure 2910 may include a reflective hollow 2915 for scattering light generated from excitation device 140 so the incident light 2901 can scatter and uniformly illuminate substrate 537 and sensing material 137. Reflective hollow 2915 may be semi- spherically shaped. Reflective hollow 2915 includes an aperture 2904 to permit incident light 2901 through into the hollow 2915. The lower structure 2910 may form energy supply structure 542 or include passage to permit energy supply structure 542 to the aperture 2904. The lower structure 2910 and / or reflective hollow 2915 may be formed of PTFE (Teflon).

[0196] Lower structure 2910 may be configured to mount sensing material 137 and substrate 537 above reflective hollow 2915. Sensing material and substrate 537 may be mounted on a flat platform 2918 of lower structure 2910.

[0197] Luminescence extrication structure 162 and / or 562 may be configured to directly contact and receive luminescence from a location 2907 at the edge of substrate 537 when mounted on lower structure 2910. As shown in Figure 29 vertical walls 2916 and 2917 of lower structure 2910 include an aperture 2912 to permit passage of luminescence extrication structure 162 and / or 562 to the edge of substrate 537 when mounted on lower structure 2910.

[0198] In some embodiments, the luminescence extrication structure 162 and / or 562 is an acrylic based polymer guide. In some other embodiments, the luminescence extrication structure 162 and / or 562 is an optical fibre, such as a low-OH content optical fibre.

[0199] Lower structure 2910 may include a fluid inlet 2914, which may taper inwards into the structure. The direction of fluid flow in lower structure 2910 may be transverse to the direction of luminescence extrication.

[0200] Upper structure 3020 may also include a similar inlet shape 3014 that encases together with the inlet 2914 when lower and upper structures are combined. Upper structure 3020 mayinclude a cavity 3025, that may be shaped to match and / or accommodate a substrate 537 (circular shaped in Figure 30). As shown in 3020(c)-(e) the cavity may be extended and taper towards the inlet (which for 3020(c)-(e) forms a tear shape). This extension region may include a pillar (see 3020(d)-(e)). The extension region may form its own chamber encasing the pillar (see 3020(e)).

[0201] Upper structure 3020 may include a channel 3022 comprising a plurality of bends between the fluid inlet 3014 and the cavity 3025. Upper structure 3020 may include a channel 3024 comprising a plurality of bends between a fluid outlet 3015 and the cavity 3025. Bends of channels 3022 and / or 3024 may be at right angles. Bends of channel 3022 and / or channel 3024 may comprise 2 to 8 bends. Bends of channel 3022 and / or channel 3024 may comprise 6 bends. Different embodiments may include varying numbers, sharpness, or length of channel between bends. Bends of channel 3022 and / or channel 3024 may form a light baffle. Channel 3022 and / or channel 3024 may additionally or alternatively include one or more internal protrusions to form a light baffle.

[0202] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and / or modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments, without departing from the broad general scope of the present disclosure. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. An apparatus for detecting the presence of a chemical in a fluid, the apparatus including: a body comprising a receiving portion for removably receiving a cartridge, fluid supply structure for introducing the fluid into the cartridge, and an excitation device for supplying electromagnetic energy to the cartridge, the cartridge comprising: a housing comprising sensing material configured to receive the electromagnetic energy, the housing receiving the fluid so as to expose the sensing material to the fluid for the sensing material to present a luminescent property when the electromagnetic energy is introduced; a measurement device configured to measure the luminescent property of the sensing material; an apparatus processor communicatively coupled to the measurement device to receive a signal from the measurement device based on the measured luminescent property and configured to determine the presence of the chemical based on the signal, wherein the luminescent property is indicative of the presence of the chemical in the fluid.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the body comprises a plurality of receiving portions for receiving a respective plurality of cartridges, wherein each cartridge comprises the same or different sensing material.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the body comprises a plurality of receiving portions for receiving a respective plurality of cartridges, wherein each cartridge comprises a different sensing material.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the body comprises a plurality of receiving portions for receiving a respective plurality of cartridges, wherein each cartridge comprises a different sensing material, and wherein each different sensing material is suitable for presenting a response to a different chemical in the fluid.

5. The apparatus of claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the body comprises a plurality of excitation devices configured for generating electromagnetic energy to the respective sensing materials of each of the plurality cartridges when received in the plurality of receiving portions.

6. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the body further comprises a guide for guiding released luminescence from the cartridge to the measurement device.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the apparatus further includes a fluid flow control element for enabling flow of the fluid through the fluid supply structure, the cartridge or plurality of cartridges, and the fluid outlet structure.

8. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the apparatus processor is configured to determine the presence of the chemical or chemicals, by classification of the chemical(s) based on the signal received from the measurement device, and wherein the apparatus processor is configured to generate an output signal indicating the presence of the chemi cal(s) for reception by an output module or device accessible to an operator.

9. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the measurement device comprises a spectrometer configured to measure the luminescent property and transmit the signal to the apparatus processor.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the luminescent property is one or a combination of: an intensity of luminescence, a wavelength of luminescence, a change in luminescence of the sensing material before, during and / or after exposure to the fluid.

11. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 10, including the cartridge or plurality of cartridges, wherein the cartridge(s) is: contained in the receiving portion(s), communicatively coupled to the apparatus processor, fluidly coupled to the fluid supply structure, and electromagnetically coupled to the measurement device.

12. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 11, further including a removably attachable modular heating unit for vaporising a sample for detection of a chemical, the heating unit including: a housing; a heating source in the housing; and a sample bearing portion in the housing; wherein the housing is configured to removably attach from the body of the apparatus; andwherein the heating unit is configured to actuate the heating source to heat a sample on the sample bearing portion to generate a fluid and introduce the fluid to an inlet of the body of the apparatus.

13. A cartridge for an apparatus for detecting the presence of a chemical in a fluid, the apparatus including a body comprising a receiving portion for removably receiving the cartridge, fluid supply structure for introducing the fluid into the cartridge, and an excitation device for supplying electromagnetic energy to the cartridge, the cartridge comprising: a housing comprising sensing material configured to receive the electromagnetic energy, the housing receiving the fluid so as to expose the sensing material to the fluid for the sensing material to present a luminescent property for measurement by a measurement device of the apparatus when the electromagnetic energy is received by the sensing material from the apparatus.

14. The cartridge of claim 13, further including a heating module, the heating module configured for heating the sensing material to a predetermined temperature.

15. The cartridge of claim 14, wherein the apparatus is the apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 12.

16. The cartridge of claim 15, further including: memory accessible to an apparatus processor of the apparatus; wherein the memory is configured with data indicating an operating configuration.

17. The cartridge of claim 16, wherein the operating configuration includes at least one of: an indicator of a category of chemical, an indicator of the sensing material, at least one frequency of operation of the excitation device, or data for processing an output signal of the measurement device.

18. The cartridge of claim 17, wherein the memory is configured with data indicating a heating configuration in accordance with which the apparatus processor controls the heating module.

19. A system for detecting the presence of a chemical in a fluid, the system including:an apparatus including a body comprising a receiving portion for removably receiving a cartridge, fluid supply structure for introducing the fluid into the cartridge, and an excitation device for supplying electromagnetic energy to the cartridge, the cartridge comprising: a housing comprising sensing material configured to receive the electromagnetic energy, the housing receiving the fluid so as to expose the sensing material to the fluid for the sensing material to present a luminescent property when the electromagnetic energy is introduced; a measurement device configured to measure a luminescent property of the sensing material; a system processor communicatively coupled to the measurement device to receive a signal from the measurement device based on the measured luminescent property and configured to determine the presence of the chemical based on the signal, wherein the luminescent property is indicative of the presence of the chemical in the fluid.

20. The system of claim 19, further including a removably attachable modular heating unit for vaporising a sample for detection of a chemical, the heating unit including: a housing; a heating source in the housing; and a sample bearing portion in the housing; wherein the housing is configured to removably attach from the body of the apparatus; and wherein the heating unit is configured to actuate the heating source to heat a sample on the sample bearing portion to generate a fluid and introduce the fluid to an inlet of the body of the apparatus.

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