"...researchers demonstrated the concept on the detection of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors such as paraoxon and aflatoxin B1 on paper using a "lateral flow" sensing approach similar to that used in a home pregnancy test strip.
The process involves formulating an ink like the one found in computer printer cartridges but with special additives to make the ink biocompatible..."
OK - HUH?
I found this article over the weekend and because we here at DeathOfTheCopier care about all things printer and nano-technology related I had to delve in.
The article goes on, "...An ink comprised of biocompatible silica nanoparticles is first deposited on paper, followed by a second ink containing the enzyme, and the resulting bio-ink forms a thin film of enzyme that is entrapped in the silica on paper. When the enzyme is exposed to a toxin, reporter molecules in the ink change colour in a manner that is dependent on the concentration of the toxin in the sample..."
Essentially it's this - certain elements can be placed in ink and utilized in ink jet cartridges. The ink is then applied to paper.
The special components in the ink will react in a certain way when exposed to particular substances/toxins. The ink will change color depending on the amount of toxin.
Just like a pregnancy test.
But this application will be used to assist in detecting toxins, pathogens and viruses, without the need for sophisticated instrumentation.
"...Portable bio-sensing papers are expected to be extremely useful in monitoring environmental and food-based toxins, as well as in remote settings in less industrialized countries where simple bioassays are essential for the first stages of detecting disease..."
Hang on to those DJ500's.
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