Receptor-Hygroscopic Polymer for Gas Phase Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sensors lack sufficient sensitivity for detecting explosives and chemical warfare agents, as well as environmental contaminants, due to the challenge of identifying a receptor with high binding specificity to target molecules amidst interfering agents in complex environments.
Innovation Solution
A composition comprising a receptor linked to a hygroscopic polymer or hydrogel that can bind specifically to target molecules, such as TNT or DNT, allowing for the development of a device capable of detecting these molecules through sensing the binding interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a receptor is used to detect target molecules in complex environments, then the sensitivity and selectivity of detection is improved, but the receptor may bind to interfering agents reducing detection accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a hygroscopic polymer or hydrogel as an intermediary layer between the receptor and the target molecule. This intermediary selectively absorbs water from the environment, creating a controlled microenvironment that enhances the binding specificity of the receptor for its target molecule while reducing interference from other agents in complex environments.
2Measurement precision
If a receptor with high binding specificity is developed, then the ability to detect target molecules against background interference is improved, but the complexity of identifying and developing such receptors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs self-service principles by utilizing the inherent properties of hygroscopic polymers and hydrogels to automatically create the optimal binding environment. The material self-regulates the local humidity and excludes interfering agents without requiring complex external control systems, thereby simplifying the overall device design while maintaining high binding specificity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the sensor operates in humid environments, then the ability to detect gas phase molecules is improved, but water interference may reduce detection accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of humidity into a beneficial feature by using the hygroscopic polymer or hydrogel to selectively concentrate water molecules at the sensor interface. This creates a favorable environment for gas phase target molecule binding while excluding other interfering agents, thereby improving detection accuracy in humid conditions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables the detection of target molecules at low concentrations, achieving high selectivity and sensitivity, particularly in gas phase environments, facilitating the identification of peptides capable of binding these compounds for use in chemical sensing applications.
Implementation Method 1
a receptor linked to a hygroscopic polymer or hydrogel
Implementation Method 2
the receptor is capable of binding to the target molecule
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides for a receptor, capable of binding to a target molecule, linked to a hygroscopic polymer or hydrogel; and the use of this receptor in a device for detecting the target molecule in a gaseous and/or liquid phase. The invention also provides for a method for detecting the presence of a target molecule in the gas phase using the device. In particular, the receptor can be a peptide capable of binding a 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) or 2,4,-dinitrotoluene (DNT).