University completes initial testing of rescue aid

The team at Loughborough is led by Paul Thomas, a professor of analytical science. His team of researchers are part of a wider project being led by the National Technical University of Athens.

The device tested by the researchers consists of a probe that carries a range of sensors, including UV and infrared detectors, microphones and detectors that can read chemical signals. It has been designed to fit into a rucksack so it can easily be carried by rescue workers who would insert it into an area of a collapsed building where people are believed to be trapped.

The four-year project recently reached a milestone when 10 volunteers spent six hours consecutively ’trapped’ in a simulated environment to help researchers test out the device, which measures the chemicals in their breath and sweat.

In the experiment, the materials in a collapsed building were recreated for the probe to be inserted into and readings were taken and analysed at different levels.