Pseudoephedrine #3: Outsmarting Methamphetamine Producers

 

Pseudoephedrine #3:  Outsmarting Methamphetamine Producers

Life Sciences, Chemistry, Scientific American, Engineering/Design, RTP

AWARD: $100,000 USD  |  DEADLINE: 11/20/14  |  ACTIVE SOLVERS: 115  |  POSTED: 8/20/14

The Seeker desires a method for formulating pseudoephedrine products in such a way that it will be extremely difficult for clandestine chemists to extract or use the pseudoephedrine in the production of the illegal drug methamphetamine.  The Seeker may be interested in pursuing further collaboration with Solvers whose solutions they find promising.  The Seeker may also allow Solvers additional time after the submission deadline to finalize experiments required for the full reduction-to-practice award.

This is a Reduction-to-Practice Challenge that requires a written proposal and experimental proof-of-concept data (and/or sample delivery).  The use of one or more surrogate compounds (e.g. substituted benzylic alcohols, structural mimics, etc.) to demonstrate proof-of-concept is required.  Solvers should NOT conduct reduction-to-practice experiments with illegal or federally controlled substances.

Source: InnoCentive      Challenge ID: 9933615

Challenge Overview

The Seeker desires a method for formulating pseudoephedrine products in such a way that it will be extremely difficult for clandestine chemists to extract or use the pseudoephedrine in the production of the illegal drug methamphetamine.  The Seeker may be interested in pursuing further collaboration with Solvers whose solutions they find promising.  The Seeker may also allow Solvers additional time after the submission deadline to finalize experiments required for the full reduction-to-practice award.

The submission to the Challenge should include the following:

1. The detailed description of the proposed Solution addressing specific Solution Requirements presented in the Detailed Description of the Challenge.  This description should be accompanied by a well-articulated rationale supported by literature/patent precedents.
2. Experimental proof-of-concept data obtained as outlined in the Detailed Description of the Challenge.   

The award is contingent upon theoretical evaluation and review of the experimental proof-of-concept of the submitted Solutions by the Seeker.

To receive an award, the Solvers will have to transfer to the Seeker their exclusive Intellectual Property (IP) rights to the solution.

What is InnoCentive?

InnoCentive is the global innovation marketplace where creative minds solve some of the world's most important problems for cash awards up to $1 million. Commercial, governmental and humanitarian organizations engage with InnoCentive to solve problems that can impact humankind in areas ranging from the environment to medical advancements.

What is an RTP Challenge?

An InnoCentive RTP (Reduction to Practice) Challenge is a prototype that proves an idea, and is similar to an InnoCentive Theoretical Challenge in its high level of detail. However, an RTP requires the Solver to submit a validated solution, either in the form of original data or a physical sample. Also the Seeker is allowed to test the proposed solution.

https://www.innocentive.com/ar/challenge/9933615?cc=SciAm9933615&utm_source=SciAm&utm_medium=pavilion&utm_campaign=challenges