Ultrasensitive Vapor Detection System
- Magazine Article
- TBMG-35976
Language:
- English
Topic:
An ultrasensitive technology detects explosive vapors, deadly chemicals, and illicit drugs and works in seconds. The ion chemistry technique initially identified RDX — a common explosive compound — at 10 parts per quadrillion (ppq). The original technology also identified explosive compounds such as C-4, PETN, Semtex, nitroglycerin, and tetryl. The system was enhanced to detect many more explosive vapors, including TNT, as well as vapors emanating from toxic chemicals similar in structure to nerve agents. The latest enhancement is the ability to detect vapors from illicit drugs such as fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine.