NIST researchers have developed a breakthrough COVID-19 detection technology using quantum physics principles. Dr. Jun Ye and his team at NIST’s Physical Measurement Laboratory and JILA have created a breathalyzer that can detect the SARS-CoV-2 virus by analyzing trace elements in human breath using machine learning and optical frequency comb technology developed for atomic clocks.
The technology was tested on 180 students from the University of Colorado Boulder, showing remarkable accuracy in distinguishing between COVID-19 positive and negative individuals. Potential applications extend beyond COVID-19 detection, including early diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), liver disease, and other conditions.
Dr. Ye and his colleagues have applied for a patent and are exploring licensing opportunities for the technology, which could have significant public health and economic benefits.
Keywords: Sensing, Metrology, Breathalyzer, Machine Learning, Frequency Combs
