One of the most effective ways by which a detector can quickly determine if chemical warfare agents are present in its environment is with the help of a clear color change. Thin layers of paint are needed
[Translation by Dr. Nachmani Moshe]
![Thin layers that change color from white to blue in response to a chemical warfare agent [courtesy: Swager lab]](https://www.hayadan.org.il/images/content3/2015/02/thinfilmsHR-500x329.jpg)
In our world today, when the threats of terrorism terrify us all, there is an urgent need for fast and reliable means of detecting deadly chemical warfare agents. Scientists are reporting new progress in the development of thin materials that can rapidly change color in the presence of chemical warfare agents - progress that could help save lives and capture terrorists.
The paper describing the new findings was published long ago in the scientific journal ACS Macro Letters. In their article, researchers Timothy M. Swager and Jonathan G. Weis note that many methods are now available to detect chemical warfare agents. One of the most effective ways by which a detector can quickly determine if chemical warfare agents are present in its environment is with the help of a clear color change. Several systems are capable of doing so when exposed to chemical warfare agents, but most are based on liquids, which are not as practical as thin layers. Thin layers are essential for real-time detection because they are simpler and easier to use and can be applied continuously.
The researchers succeeded in developing an innovative material in the form of a thin layer and tested it using a substance that mimics a chemical nerve gas. When exposed to the nerve gas, the material changed its color quickly. The researchers conclude and state that it will be possible to develop a family of substances of this type in order to quickly locate various chemical warfare agents.
