Detector (Vasor136)*

Unlike other portable detectors, the sensors inside our detector are 36 living honey bees. This detector is designed to allow anyone to operate without the need of a bee expert.

Our proof-of-principle detector VASOR136 contains six, 6-bee cassettes (for a total of 36 bees). Bees in each cassette are trained to a specific target. During operation, through the air sampling system, the target air is presented to the bees for six seconds. The response of each bee is monitored electronically and displayed as an easy-read graphical result.

Vasor136 has been tested against an IMS detector (Ion-mobility spectrometer) during a trial organised by the UK Home Office. It successfully detected traces of explosives at 25-50 parts per billion when the IMS detector failed. Our laboroatory results show that bees have the capability to detect trace vapours at even lower concentrations. We are now developing a second generation of detector to optimise the high sensitivity of honey bees.

The next stage of development will begin after the completion of the automatic training unit. This new detector will be fitted with an embedded LCD screen, easy to read graphical user interaface, improved air sampling system and will be lightweight with industrial grade components.

 

* VASOR136 (Volatile Analysis by Specific Olfactory Recognition)