A new method for quickly detecting harmful chemicals in water.

Fluorescence-solid phase Extraction (F-SPE) Microfluidic Platform for Rapid, Onsite Detection and Identification of PFAS with Machine Learning

NIH-funded research Espira, INC. · NIH-11186390

This study is working on a new, easy-to-use tool that helps quickly find harmful chemicals called PFAS in water, making it affordable and accessible for communities dealing with water contamination.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEspira, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Salt Lake City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11186390 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a microfluidic platform that uses fluorescence-solid phase extraction to rapidly detect and identify per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water. By utilizing machine learning, the platform aims to provide a low-cost and efficient solution for onsite testing, making it accessible for communities affected by PFAS contamination. The goal is to simplify the detection process, which is currently limited by expensive and time-consuming laboratory methods, thereby enabling quicker responses to water safety concerns.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas with known PFAS contamination in their water supply.

Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in areas affected by PFAS contamination may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to faster and more affordable detection of PFAS in drinking water, improving public health and safety.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using fluorescence-based detection methods for environmental pollutants, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Salt Lake City, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions cancer risk
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.