Exclusively licensed from the U.S. Army Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC), DEFENZ enzymes are capable of breaking down certain organophosphate type materials including G-type nerve agents such as somain and sarin.
Enzymes are proteins that help a chemical reaction take place specifically, quickly and efficiently. Enzymes offer a number of advantages over traditional harsh and caustic chemical decontaminants including being water soluble, environmentally benign, non-flammable and non-corrosive.
"With the continuing threat of biological and chemical attacks on the United States and in other parts of the world, DEFENZ enzymes are an important capability to have available to react to an incident quickly and effectively," said Thomas Pekich, group vice president, Bioproducts, for Genencor.
"Biotechnology has a lot to offer in homeland security and defense and we are proud to be able to deliver new solutions to these threats."
In tests conducted by Genencor and ECBC, one gram of DEFENZ 120G enzyme decontaminated approximately two kilograms of G-type agents within 15 minutes of contact.
Because enzyme decontaminants are much more potent than traditional chemicals, they greatly reduce logistical and storage issues when deployed for civilian and military readiness.
Available in granule form, DEFENZ enzymes can be added to the water supply on an emergency vehicle en-route to or on the site of a chemical emergency.
The enzyme is then applied through a typical existing foam nozzle or foaming equipment. This formulation leads to easier handling for the user with no special storage or transportation requirements.