The Catalyst Centre was recently approached by a company that is interested in engaging the University of Guelph on collaborative projects related to diagnostic screening of fluids.
The company, which is based in Ontario, is developing a spectrometer-on-a-chip technology, consisting of a nano optic/photo detector array overlaying a custom designed chip and supporting software. The device is of the size of a small lipstick applicator that can be dipped into a fluid and the device will quickly check the contents of the liquid for the user. The supporting software compares the digital signature of the present fluid with a standard database of reference fluids to detect potential adulteration. The result is immediately flagged to the user.
The company is interested in collaborating with the University of Guelph on projects that would assist in the development of testing protocols that could be used to:
(i) identify instances of contamination or fraud in the alcoholic beverage industry, and
(ii) extend applications of the device to include detection of trace quantities of common drugs in saliva.
If you would like to connect with the company, please contact Gregor Lawson (lawsong@uoguelph.ca, Ext. 53351)