Remote detection of explosives using field asymmetric ion mobility spectrometer installed on multicopter

The detection of explosives and drugs in hard-to-reach places is a considerable challenge. We report the development and initial experimental characterization of the air analysis system that includes Field Asymmetric Ion Mobility Spectrometer, array of the semiconductor gas sensors and is installed on multicopter. The system was developed based on the commercially available DJI Matrix 100 platform. For data collection and communication with operator, the special compact computer (Intel Compute Stick) was installed onboard. The total weight of the system was 3.3 kg. The system allows the 15-minute flight and provides the remote access to the obtained data. The developed system can be effectively used for the detection of impurities in the air, ecology monitoring, detection of chemical warfare agents, and explosives, what is especially important in light of recent terroristic attacks. The capabilities of the system were tested on the several explosives such as trinitrotoluene and nitro powder.