M.A.I.K®
Filling a capability gap: Enables first responders to detect nerve agents on surfaces.
M.A.I.K® is a portable test kit for detecting nerve agents and other inhibitors of the human enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE). M.A.I.K® is based on a method developed by the German Bundeswehr1 and enables rapid, sensitive on-site detection of AChE-inhibiting substances directly on the skin or other surfaces.
The Test Kit
M.A.I.K® consists of four components packaged in an airtight and waterproof bag:
- 1A cotton swab for sampling
- 2A test tube containing a buffer solution
- 3A yellow cap containing human AChE
- 4A red cap containing specific substances to trigger a color reaction
Depending on whether an AChE inhibitor was collected during sampling, the subsequent use of the four components will either trigger or inhibit a color reaction.
Measurement Principle
The testing principle of M.A.I.K® is based on an enzymatic color reaction using human acetylcholinesterase (AChE): After a sample is collected from the skin or other surfaces using a cotton swab, the swab is transferred to a test tube containing a test solution. Reagent caps containing human AChE and specific reagents, respectively, are placed on the tube one after another.
If no AChE inhibitor (e.g., a nerve agent) was collected during sampling, the AChE in the test solution will remain active and a color reaction will occur, causing the test solution to turn a deep yellow. If, however, an AChE inhibitor was collected during sampling, the AChE in the test solution will be inhibited and no color reaction will occur, meaning that the test solution will remain colorless.
In just three minutes — from sample collection to test results — surface contamination with a nerve agent or another AChE inhibitor can be detected quickly and easily.
The following demonstration video shows how to use M.A.I.K®:
M.A.I.K® in Pictures
Even under difficult conditions, such as low-light conditions while using a headlamp, successful detection using M.A.I.K® is still possible.
The Principle of M.A.I.K®
Mobile Use
- Lightweight: ≈ 27 g
- Compact size: 12.5 cm x 16.7 cm
Quick and Easy to Use
- Just 4 steps required
- Results are available within 3 minutes
- The test can be performed on skin and other surfaces (metal, paint, glass)
Broad Detection Sprectrum
- Sensitive to all human-toxic substances that inhibit AChE (e.g., Novichok, Sarin, Tabun, VX, Soman, Cyclosarin, RVX)
Highly Sensitive
- Very low detection limits (e.g., VX: 100 ng)
- Measurement temperature: 10–50 °C
M.A.I.K® enables the rapid detection of surface contamination with nerve agents and other AChE inhibitors. This makes it possible to immediately implement countermeasures, such as decontamination or the initiation of treatment.
FAQs
What is the M.A.I.K® measurement principle?
M.A.I.K® is based on an enzymatic color reaction with human acetylcholinesterase (AChE)1. If the sample contains an AChE inhibitor (e.g., nerve agent), the enzyme is inhibited and the test solution remains colorless. If no inhibitor is present, the AChE remains active and the solution turns yellow.
What types of surfaces can be examined?
M.A.I.K® is suitable for sampling human skin and numerous other surfaces. These include clothing, glass, metal, painted surfaces, packaging materials, etc.
How sensitive is M.A.I.K®?
M.A.I.K® is highly sensitive and detects AChE-inhibiting substances such as nerve agents or other organophosphate compounds (e.g., certain pesticides) even at very low concentrations. The detection limits are typically in the low nanogram to sub-microgram range, well below toxicologically relevant amounts. This allows even minor surface contamination to be reliably detected.
What applications is M.A.I.K® suitable for?
M.A.I.K® was developed for rapid on-site detection of AChE-inhibiting substances. The system is particularly suited for use in the military, police, fire department, civil protection, disaster relief, and CBRN defense sectors, when surfaces need to be tested for nerve agents, organophosphates, or other AChE inhibitors. Thanks to its ease of use, M.A.I.K® can be deployed directly at the site.
What is the shelf life of M.A.I.K®?
The shelf life is established by the manufacturer and specified in the product documentation. From the date of manufacture, M.A.I.K® has a shelf life of 1 year when stored at temperatures up to 40 °C.
Where is M.A.I.K® manufactured?
M.A.I.K® is manufactured entirely in Germany. Production, packaging, and quality control take place at our facility in Alsbach-Hähnlein (Hesse). This means M.A.I.K® stands for reliable manufacturing according to high quality standards and short delivery routes.
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