Threat detection of liquid explosive precursor mixtures by Spatially Offset Raman Spectroscopy (SORS)

Michael D. Hargreaves; Pavel Matousek

doi:10.1117/12.840195

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24 September 2009 Threat detection of liquid explosive precursor mixtures by Spatially Offset Raman Spectroscopy (SORS)

Michael D. Hargreaves, Pavel Matousek

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Proceedings Volume 7486, Optics and Photonics for Counterterrorism and Crime Fighting V; 74860B (2009) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.840195
Event: SPIE Security + Defence, 2009, Berlin, Germany

Abstract

We present the detection of liquid explosive precursor mixtures through diffusely scattering and fluorescing bottles and packaging. Spatially Offset Raman Spectroscopy (SORS) is a recently developed Raman spectroscopic method capable of non-invasively interrogating diffusely scattering containers. When compared with conventional Raman, a substantially enhanced sensitivity is achieved by the technique's inherent ability to effectively suppress fluorescence and Raman contributions originating from the wall of the container. The measurements presented here focus on challenging mixtures of hydrogen peroxide solution, a critical component of a number of liquid explosives, with highly absorbing or fluorescing beverages and creams, in which liquid explosive precursors could potentially be concealed. The method enabled the detection of concealed hydrogen peroxide solution in all the studied cases.

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Michael D. Hargreaves and Pavel Matousek "Threat detection of liquid explosive precursor mixtures by Spatially Offset Raman Spectroscopy (SORS)", Proc. SPIE 7486, Optics and Photonics for Counterterrorism and Crime Fighting V, 74860B (24 September 2009); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.840195

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