Applied Nanotech Holdings, Inc. (OTC BB: APNT) announced that it has been awarded an extension of its 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 by providing solutions to the technical and safety needs of the natural gas industry and their customers," stated Applied Nanotech, Inc. CEO, Dr. Zvi Yaniv. "The mercaptan sensor will incorporate our non-radioactive ionization source technology, enabling the development of sensing device without the need for radioactive material".
The Northeast Gas Association, through its NYSEARCH sub-organization manages one of the premier natural gas research, development and demonstration (RD & D) programs in the United States. NYSEARCH funds and manages technology development projects from the conception through the commercialization phases for nineteen (19) natural gas distribution companies throughout the US and Canada, including the largest ones. Its RD&D portfolio spans the needs of the industry and has resulted in some of the most transformative new technologies in the industry. The initial phase of funding for the ANI mercaptan development program completed a benchmarking and feasibility study of the ANI sensor approach. The additional funding for this contract extension will result in an engineering prototype for in-line sensing for mercaptans at pipeline test-points.
“I am pleased that that we continue to progress toward commercializing trace chemical sensor solutions with significant market potential,” said Doug Baker, CEO of Applied Nanotech Holdings, Inc. “We also recognize that this technology has many applications beyond this project, including other industrial and health monitoring applications.”
Source: http://www.appliednanotech.net/