Methodologies for Removing/Desorbing and Transport

Authors: Carla J Miller Ernesto R Cespedes

Publish Date: 2013/05/18

Volume: 13, Issue: 3-4, Pages: 101-117

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Abstract

Explosive trace detection ETD continues to be a key technology supporting the fight against terrorist bombing threats Very selective and sensitive ETD instruments have been developed to detect explosive threats concealed on personnel in vehicles in luggage and in cargo containers as well as for forensic analysis eg post blast inspection bombmaker identification etc in a broad range of homeland security law enforcement and military applications A number of recent studies have highlighted the fact that significant improvements in ETD systems’ capabilities will be achieved not by increasing the selectivity/sensitivity of the sensors but by improved techniques for particle/vapor sampling preconcentration and transport to the sensors This review article represents a compilation of studies focused on characterizing the adhesive properties of explosive particles the methodologies for removing/desorbing these particles from a range of surfaces and approaches for transporting them to the instrument The objectives of this review are to summarize fundamental work in explosive particle characterization to describe experimental work performed in harvesting and transport of these particles and to highlight those approaches that indicate high potential for improving ETD capabilities

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