Grantee Research Project Results
Encapsulation of Biological Contaminants in Transportation Systems
EPA Contract Number: EPD18005Title: Encapsulation of Biological Contaminants in Transportation Systems
Investigators: Beltis, Kevin J
Small Business: TIAX, L.L.C.
EPA Contact: Richards, April
Phase: II
Project Period: February 1, 2018 through January 31, 2021
Project Amount: $299,938
RFA: Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) - Phase II (2017) Recipients Lists
Research Category: SBIR - Homeland Security , Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
Description:
TIAX has developed a technology to meet EPA and homeland security needs for bio-agent decontamination in railway cars and other situations. It provides simultaneous encapsulation and killing of biological contaminants with the added capability for decontamination of chemical and radiological hazards. Current technologies are labor-intensive involving separate steps for site preparation, decontamination, wash-down, and waste disposal. TIAX’s technology combines tasks, reduces labor, and requires a smaller logistical response. The remediation process provides protection against worker exposure and environmental cross-contamination; and reduces hazardous waste disposal volumes versus typical liquid wash-down. TIAX’s past research shows essentially complete removal of hazards with a demonstrated 7-log kill of Bacillus atrophaeus. The technology may be used in response to hazardous material releases in buildings and transportation systems, including trains, buses and aircraft. According to an independent technology commercialization assessment, the technology is transferable to the Environmental Services Market (e.g., mold remediation and asbestos abatement) with a reported 2013 market approaching of $2.1B and the hazardous waste market of $25.9B in 2014. End users include hazmat companies for commercial remediation response and homeowners for smaller clean-up projects at hardware retailers. TIAX has received interest from manufacturers in adding this technology to their existing product lines.
Progress and Final Reports:
SBIR Phase I:
Encapsulation of Biological Contaminants in Transportation Systems | Final ReportThe perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.