Initiative for Explosives Detection
Enhanced Sampling and Preconcentration
Sampling and preconcentration can provide improved sensitivity and selectivity for detection of explosives, breakdown products and precursors without significantly impacting analysis time or cost. These improvements can complement and extend the capabilities of the existing trace detection systems. The potential benefits of improved sampling techniques and preconcentration systems include obtaining larger samples of low vapor pressure explosives and “sticky” explosives particles, while at the same time decreasing background interferences and false alarms. The ultimate goal would be to allow for direct vapor detection of explosives.