Utilizing Upconverting Phosphors for the Detection of TNT

摘要

Herein we purpose to utilize upconverting phosphors to detect explosives. To detect TNT, antibodies specific to TNT are conjugated to the surface. The role of the antibodies is two fold; to bind a quencher and to accept TNT. The quencher is a bifunctional molecule, with one end containing a TNT analog and the other end being a dark fluorescent quenching dye. The dye is chosen so that the luminescence from the phosphor will be absorbed preventing it from emitting, reducing luminescence from the phosphor. However, in the presence of TNT the quencher that is bound with DNT will be displaced. With the quencher displaced the phosphor will be able to emit light indicating TNT is present in the select area.