CEREX Final Report – “Detection of Explosives Particles by Imaging Raman Spectroscopy

Authors:

  • Ema Ceco
  • Markus Nordberg
  • Ahmed Al-Khalili
  • Maria Axelsson
  • Anneli Ehlerding
  • Anders Elfving
  • Hanna Ellis
  • Martin Glimtoft
  • Ida Johansson
  • Niklas Johansson
  • Petra Bååth
  • Ola Norberg
  • Anna Pettersson
  • Pierre Strömbeck
  • Bernhard Zachhuber
  • Sara Wallin
  • Madeleine Åkeson
  • Henric Östmark

Publish date: 2012-11-23

Report number: FOI-R--3461--SE

Pages: 168

Written in: English

Keywords:

  • Imaging Raman spectroscopy
  • stand-off
  • imaging
  • UV- measurements
  • explosives
  • fingerprint detection
  • ICCD camera
  • particles

Abstract

A novel, cutting edge, explosives traces detection technique, based on multi-spectral imaging Raman spectroscopy has been developed at FOI. With funding from the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB), project CEREX took its first steps three years ago. This is the final report of the project in which we sum up the activities. The reader is first introduced to the present threat from explosives and why it is of urgency to explore and further develop detection instruments for explosives. Raman spectroscopy is then briefly described and how it could be used as a foundation for standoff detection of explosives substances. The demonstrator system is described in detail and subsequently also how it has developed during the project years. A demonstrator setup using a 532 nm laser has been tested throughout the project, but also, a setup mounted on a table using an eye safe 355 nm laser has been assembled for proof of concept. Experimental work during the project has proven that it is possible to detect traces of explosives in the sub microgram range which seems very promising. The present system is portable and robust enough to be mounted and operated from a car. The algorithms for spectrum classification show a lot of potential but should be developed further for optimization of the system. Finally, the outcomes of the project are discussed. What can be concluded, pleasantly enough, is that our technique is sought for seeing as many potential end users for the system show great interest. There are nevertheless a number of areas in which we see even more potential for development. These are discussed in the final chapters of this report as well as some setbacks throughout the project. In conclusion, the initiation of project CEREX was focused on patenting the technique upon which the demonstrator setup is founded. Today, almost three years later, it is evident that development of standoff Raman techniques all over the world has expanded immensely. However, from our experience our technique still seems to be state of the art.