At the 2007 Paris Air Show, conducted June 18-24, 2007, the world’s second largest aerospace and defense company, European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company (EADS), presented newly adapted technologies for use as portable threat detection devices. The systems are based from existing EADS technologies, however, engineers have adapted the current technologies to specifically assess possible future US homeland security threats such as chemical, radiological, nuclear and explosive hazards.
Most notable of the systems unveiled during the show were the Laser Ion Mobility Spectrometry Sensor, which is a chemical, explosive and drug sensing device; the Bio Detection System, which is used to combat biological threats; and the Neutron Activation Sensor, which is a neutron penetration system used for detecting nuclear or radioactive materials.
Such new technological advances could provide enhanced monitoring capabilities for use in safeguarding US borders and infrastructure, and assist in future US homeland security efforts.
Laser Ion Mobility Spectrometry Sensor (LIMS)
The LIMS system is capable of detecting chemical, explosive and drug traces by collecting small amounts of vapor or particles. LIMS uses advanced laser technology that efficiently scours the air for unusual particles that are emitted from a chemical, explosive or drug like material.
Compared to existing laser technology, the LIMS is less susceptible to false readings and allows authorities to conduct faster surveys of an area.
Currently, the system displayed at the Paris Air Show was the size of a book. However, a smaller hand held version is also being developed.
Bio Detection System
Using sophisticated micro-mechanical filters that operate at 450 nanometers, the system is capable of detecting bacteria and single organisms that could pose a biological threat to drinking water.
Where existing systems may take hours or days to test reservoirs, water systems and storage areas, the Bio Detection system is capable of scanning the water for harmful agents in minutes.
EADS also has plans to reduce the size of the detector from the size of a book to a hand held version.
Neutron Activation Sensor
Using a fast 3D neutron penetration technology, the suitcase sized multipurpose detector is capable of scanning for explosives, chemicals, nuclear and radioactive materials in larger bulk items, such as, luggage and shipping containers. The detector is also capable of penetrating heavy shielded materials with a greater sensitivity than current systems.
The detector could lead to the creation of a larger portable system that, once developed, could scan freight containers and checked luggage at airports.
An Opportunity at Hand
Preventing future terrorist attacks from occurring requires a dedicated system of observation that employs innovative detection technologies. Thus, the EADS North America advanced technologies present a key upgrade to the US security market.
However, details related to equipment cost have not been released. Additionally, the equipment will require testing to gain approval for use in the homeland security community and market.
Once the equipment is tested to ensure performance, a manufacturing joint venture between EADS and the Department of Homeland Security could greatly benefit security detection services throughout the US.
