| abstract |
A method and apparatus for determining the presence of a toxic agent, such as a toxic chemical, bacterium, or virus is described. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a sampler that comprises means for extracting a sample from the environment of the apparatus, such as the ambient atmosphere, water, or soil. Optionally, the sampler can include additional pre-processing means to isolate particular elements of the sample or put the sample in better condition for assay. The apparatus and method can be used to detect a variety of chemical and biological toxins, both natural and non-natural, including chemical and biological toxins of unknown composition and origin. |