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Integrated Laser Sensor (ILS) for Remote Surface Analysis: Application for Detecting Explosives in Fingerprints
Violeta Lazic1, Antonio Palucci2, Luigi De Dominicis3
1Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA , Dep. FSN-TECFIS-DIM, Via E. Fermi 45, 00044 Frascati (RM), Italy. violeta.lazic@enea.it.
An innovative Integrated Laser Sensor (ILS) combines multiple spectroscopic techniques for rapid material analysis. This transportable device successfully detected trace explosives at a distance, demonstrating its security application potential.
Area of Science:
- Spectroscopy
- Laser-based sensing
- Analytical chemistry
Background:
- Material analysis often requires multiple instruments.
- Transportable sensors are needed for field applications.
- Security applications demand rapid detection of trace substances.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce an innovative Integrated Laser Sensor (ILS).
- To demonstrate the ILS's capability in material analysis and trace explosive detection.
- To validate the ILS for security applications.
Main Methods:
- Integrated Laser Sensor (ILS) combining Raman, Laser-Induced Fluorescence (LIF), Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS), and Laser Scattering (LS).
- Excitation wavelengths at 355 nm, 1064 nm, and 650 nm.
- Automatic switching between techniques, autofocus, and remote wireless control.
Main Results:
- The ILS provides data on material changes, surface contaminants, and molecular/elemental composition.
- Successful outdoor testing for automatic recognition of trace explosives.
- Demonstrated identification of nitro-compounds at a working distance of 10 m.
Conclusions:
- The ILS is a versatile, transportable sensor for comprehensive material analysis.
- The developed sensor shows significant promise for security applications, particularly in detecting trace explosives.
- The integrated approach offers enhanced capabilities for remote sensing.
