AI-Powered Breath Test for Silicosis
A rapid, non-invasive test to detect silicosis and protect worker health
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Challenge
Mine and construction workers are at high risk of silicosis, yet current tests are invasive, slow and often detect disease only after significant lung damage has occurred.
Solution
The test analyses thousands of breath molecules in real-time using mass spectrometry, with interpretable AI highlighting key biomarkers. This approach could facilitate earlier and easier detection of silicosis in routine occupational health checks, supporting better outcomes if validated in larger cohorts.
Target customers / end-users
• occupational health providers
• mining and construction companies
• government health agencies.
Progress
• AU $ 1m + secured through iCare and other grants
• clinical pilots underway at Sydney and Newcastle screening clinics
• featured in national and international media outlets.
Research Project
Proof-of-concept
TRL 3
Multidisciplinary team
Healthy Living
This project delivers a breath-based screening test that detects early signs of silicosis in under five minutes. AI models interpret molecular signatures, providing clinicians with accurate results. The project is gaining momentum through clinical pilots, funding and widespread national and international media coverage.
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