Second Skin as Self-Protection Against γ-Hydroxybutyrate.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Forensic Science

Background:

• gamma-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is a date-rape drug used in drug-facilitated sexual assaults due to its undetectable nature in beverages.
• Existing GHB detection methods are often impractical for real-time, discreet use due to equipment requirements and low selectivity.
• There is a critical need for accessible, on-site detection solutions for personal safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a rapid, simple, and confidential self-protection platform for in-situ GHB detection.
• To create a device for naked-eye detection of GHB without the need for external equipment.
• To enhance personal safety and aid in the prevention of drug-facilitated sexual assault.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a 'second skin' platform using poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), polyurethane (PU), and polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers.
• Incorporation of a chemical receptor, 2-(3-bromo-4-hydroxystyryl)-3-ethylbenzothiazol-3-ium iodide (BHEI), into PAN nanofibers (PB NFs).
• Testing the platform's sensitivity, speed, and usability for GHB detection on fingertips and wrists.

Main Results:

• The PB NFs platform demonstrated rapid detection of GHB at concentrations as low as 0.01 mg/mL.
• The second skin platform detected GHB (1 and 0.1 mg/mL) within 50 seconds when attached to skin.
• The platform exhibits a strong, irreversible color change upon GHB interaction and can utilize fingerprint and temperature recognition for discreet use.

Conclusions:

• The developed second skin platform offers a highly sensitive, fast, and user-friendly method for GHB detection.
• This wearable technology provides a confidential and accessible tool for personal safety and crime prevention.
• The platform's ability to function discreetly makes it a valuable aid for daily life and combating drug-facilitated sexual assault.