SCANar™
Point-of-need Narcotics detection

SCANar™ is the first quantitative, non-invasive solution for point-of-need drugs of abuse testing in sweat. Sweat is stimulated on-demand using a wearable generator, gathered into a microfluidic collector, and analyzed by an automated portable detector to provide accurate quantitative results. The SCANar™ system offers a convenient and tamper-resistant alternative to traditional urine and saliva based qualitative drug testing methods.

Detection Panel: Methamphetamine, Amphetamine, THC, Fentanyl, Buprenorphine, Cocaine, Ketamine, Methadone

How It Works

Strap the generator module onto the inner forearm, press start, and initiate the 5 minute sweat stimulation process.

Attach the microfluidic collector to the inner forearm to capture the stimulated sweat – ready for 5-panel detection in just 10 minutes.

Insert the integrated collector cartridge into the portable detector for precise, quantitative results in just 30 minutes.

Features

SCANar™ provides confirmatory results on-site with superior privacy and accuracy.

         Quantitative

  • Detection limits of sub ng/mL
  • Multiplexed detection in < 1hour
  • Accurate and sensitive

             Convenient

  • Non-Invasive
  • Superior privacy versus urine
  • Hassle free sample handling

Point of Care

  • Portable and automated
  • Confirmation at patient site
  • Enables immediate intervention

Product Journey

2021-2022

  • Prototype development
  • Customer discovery through NIH I-Corps
  • Proof-of-concept validation in human subject study

2023-2024

  • Portable and automated generator; benchtop detector
  • Performance validation of generator & collector in 100+ tests
  • Regulatory pathway established and FDA RFD completed

2025

  • Portable and automated 8-panel detector
  • Performance validation in large scale human trials
  • SCANar™ beta version limited release to strategic partners

2026 and Beyond

  • FDA 510(K) submission
  • SCANar™ officially introduced into the market
  • SCANar™ hand-held version development

FAQs

How does Arborsense SCANar™ work ?

SCANar™ technology enables real-time, non-invasive drug detection in sweat through a microfluidic based competitive ELISA method. The sweat generator uses iontophoresis to stimulate eccrine glands on the inner forearm to generate sweat, which is then collected and analyzed by the ultra sensitive ELISA-based detector. SCANar system quantifies multiple drugs within an hour, with detection limits as low as 0.1 ng/mL.

How SCANar™ outperforms urine testing?

SCANar™’s sweat based drug detection eliminates privacy concerns of observed urine collection while offering convenient, hassle-free sample handling. SCANar™ delivers multiplexed drug detection within an hour, unlike urine tests, which provide only qualitative results and require external lab confirmation with a two-day turnaround.

What substances of abuse are detected by SCANar™?

SCANar™ is a 8-panel detector capable of detecting multiple drugs, including but not limited to Methamphetamine, Amphetamine, Buprenorphine, Fentanyl, THC, Cocaine, Ketamine, and Methadone.

What is the detection range of drugs in sweat?

SCANar™ accurately quantifies drug concentrations from 0.1 to 100 ng/mL, covering typical sweat drug levels of 1 to 50 ng/mL.

How long are drugs present in sweat?

Studies show that drugs can be detected in sweat for 7–14 days, offering an extended detection window.

What are the areas of application for SCANar™?

SCANar™ enables rapid, reliable, and hassle-free drug screening for organizations requiring point-of-need testing. Ideal for courts, agencies, and rehab centers, it supports abstinence monitoring, detox tracking, and drug-assisted therapy. It also offers tamper-proof testing for workplace screening.