Anthrax Control Systems:

KSE currently has a major process development program underway to commercialize its photocatalytic technology for inactivation of air-borne Bacillus anthracis (anthrax bacteria and anthrax spores). KSE currently has a patent position in anthrax control. We are now incorporating the technology into a system to be installed into circulating air ducts of buildings to provide protection against introduction of anthrax bacteria into central air systems by a terrorist act. The KSE demonstration program utilizes surrogate bacterial spores for experimental studies, selected as the closest non-pathogenic bacteria to anthrax.

The technology is designed to inactivate a broad range of such pathogens, since future bioengineering could lead to modified anthrax spores. Such a broad acting technology could also find immediate applicability in curing "sick building syndrome", by destroying other microorganisms and organic vapors in indoor air. Hence, the technology would find immediate use and justification, while providing insurance against a future terrorist attack.

Commercial applications will provide an air purification technology with broad bactericidal activity, particularly useful for anthrax spores, bioengineered anthrax, and other pathogens, as well as common microorganisms and organic vapors contributing to a "sick building". It will thus provide a central defense strategy against the threat of introduction of lethal anthrax spores into central air systems, while also providing immediate commercial benefit through improvements of indoor air quality of homes and commercial buildings by removing organic compounds and common microorganisms.