Enhanced Detection of narcotics Using Vapor-Phase Analysis from Rapid Drug Test Kits: Paving the Way for Breath-Based Diagnostics

Abstract

In recent years, Korea has seen a rise in drug offenders, alongside the emergence of over 900 new drug types. However, there is a shortage of experts and laboratories for proper testing. To address this, we developed a portable drug diagnostic kit for immediate field use, incorporating AI to enhance detection accuracy. Traditional drug kits require time and equipment to detect substances in liquid form. Our new method detects vaporized drug particles, enabling quicker analysis without additional tools. By vaporizing liquid samples, drug detection becomes more efficient, which is crucial for on-site use. This vapor-phase detection method also shows potential for breath-based drug diagnostic kits, allowing non-invasive, real-time testing through exhalation samples. Researchers at Chungnam National University developed optical discoloration materials with enhanced selectivity and detection efficiency. KIST contributed moisture-stable nanofiber coatings and film-like patches, further improving device durability. Preliminary tests on 60 drugs, including morphine and methamphetamine, confirmed color change detection in vaporized samples. By expanding the drug database and documenting sensor reactions, this technology can be further developed and commercialized for field use, offering fast, reliable drug detection and the foundation for breath-based rapid diagnostics.