Malaria mosquitos are common in wetlands, especially in rice growing regions and in cool shaded wooded areas and pools. Individuals are in danger of being bitten by a malaria-carrying mosquito when in proximity to these types of landscapes. For this reason, individuals can benefit from using a portable, non-toxic device that protects against malaria-transmitting mosquitoes.

Detailed description of the solution

ThermaCELL is a portable, battery-less, non-toxic device that dispenses a small amount of heated mosquito repellent into the air over a long period of time. This device is powered by a butane cartridge which provides the cordless, portable heat necessary to vaporize the repellant, which mimics naturally occurring insecticide. The repellant creates an area of 15 x 15 ft (225 sq ft) of protection against mosquitoes. The product promises to keep 98% of biting insects at a distance.

Designed by

• Design: This device was developed under a cooperative research and development agreement between The Schawbel Corporation and Walter Reed Army Institute of Research.
• Manufacturing: United States

When and where it was tested/implemented

ThermaCELL was tested by the United States Army and it was used by the U.S. Army in Iraq, Kuwait and Afghanistan.

Funding Source

The U.S. Army

References