Devices and methods for the collection and detection of substances

Abstract

The present invention is a single self-contained device for collecting, transferring, extracting, and testing for the presence of a target analyte in a sample obtained from a surface by swabbing, solid materials (pills, capsules, unknown powders), air samples and biological and non-biological fluids. The device includes a swab, a retention well including eluent fluid, and analysis technologies which can include but are not limited to lateral flow testing analysis. The major improvement is the invention of rinsing the swab with proprietary elution fluid prior to testing thereby not compromising the chemistry and allowing for a wide variety of applications under extremely hot or cold field conditions. Also, the device is in one self-contained unit instead of having a separate water dropper or spray. Moreover, the shape of the device is similar to a magic marker so it is more substantial than any drug tester on the market, as well in certain embodiments it can have grips resembling a gun and in certain embodiments can even emit sounds or smells when a surface is wiped or a positive test is attained.