Applied Nanotech Holdings, Inc. (OTCBB: APNT) announced that its subsidiary, Applied Nanotech, Inc. (ANI), has been awarded a contract to develop a mercaptan sensor by the Northeast Gas Association (NGA). Mercaptans, also known as thiols, are the sulfur containing chemical compounds which are added to natural gas as a safety measure to give the gas its distinctive odor. Currently, the typical method for sensing mercaptan within the natural gas industry relies on personnel to physically sniff for the presence of mercaptan. The development of a mercaptan sensor would eliminate the subjectivity of current testing methods, and provide greater safety, efficiency, and reduced costs.
"We are excited to support the Northeast Gas Association in its efforts to address the technical needs of the natural gas industry and their customers," stated ANI CEO, Dr. Zvi Yaniv. "The mercaptan sensor will incorporate ANI's non-radioactive ionization source technology, enabling the development of sensing device without the need for radioactive material."
The Northeast Gas Association, through its NYSEARCH committee manages one of the premier natural gas research, development and demonstration (RD & D) programs in the United States. The initial phase of funding for the ANI mercaptan development program provides for full compensation of all work performed up to $548,673.
Applied Nanotech Holdings, Inc. is a premier research and commercialization organization focused on solving problems at the molecular level. Its team of PhD level scientists and engineers work with companies and other organizations to solve technical impasses and create innovations that will create a competitive advantage. The business model is to license patents and technology to partners that will manufacture and distribute products using the technology. Applied Nanotech has over 250 patents or patents pending . APNT also possesses investments related to electronic digitized sign technology.