Cdex, Inc. (fka CDEX)

[d4diddy]

More grant money available for the meth gun?

TITLE: RELIABLE PEROXIDE-BASED EXPLOSIVES DETECTION WITH LOW FALSE ALARM RATE

TECHNOLOGY AREAS:Explosives detection, transportation security.

OBJECTIVE: Develop or modify a reliable, easy to use, portable device for detecting trace amounts of peroxide-based explosives from particulates which has superior capabilities to any existing equipment.

DESCRIPTION: There is a growing need for the ability to detect trace amounts of peroxide-based explosives on individuals traveling by means of public transportation. Peroxide-based materials are of interest because they are generally known to be used for homemade explosives (HME). This type of explosive, while not complex, is highly dangerous because the components are easily obtainable; typical peroxide-based HMEs are made from peroxide and sugar.

The main locations for using such detection devices will be airports, train stations, bus depots, or other areas where passengers are required to purchase a ticket for transportation (although the source for sampling should not be limited to tickets).

Trace detection technologies are being used at various airports but the devices are not hand-held and are used to detect other types of explosives. We are seeking to build on research and development already being performed to incorporate portability of trace detection devices that can detect peroxide-based explosives. A desired capability includes a decreased dependence on use of a substrate (i.e. tickets).

PHASE I: Evaluate technologies to detect trace amounts of peroxide-based explosives. Develop a design that will build on those technologies that will include portability and novel ways for sample collection of peroxide-based explosives. Present prototype design and proof of feasibility.

PHASE II: Develop and fabricate the prototype system and run laboratory and field testing, including testing to determine and assess the false alarm rate.

PHASE III - COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS:Work with commercial entities to demonstrate manufacturability of demonstrated system which would have commercial and military application and identify commercial applications of underlying technologies for other than stated purposes.

REFERENCES:

Hannum, D. and J. Parmeter, "Survey of Commercially Available Explosives Detection Technologies and Equipment," Office of Science and Technology, Washington D.C.: U.S. Department of Justice, National Institute of Justice, National Law Enforcement and Correction Technology Center Report, September 1998, NCJ 171133.

2) Pursuit Management Task Force Report, September 1998,
Moore, D. "Instrumentation for Trace Detection of High Explosives." American Institute of Physics 2004: vol. 75 no. 8, 2499-2512.

National Research Council of the National Academies. Containing the Threat from Illegal Bombs. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2003.

National Research Council of the National Academies. Existing and Potential Standoff Explosives Detection Techniques. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2003.

National Research Council of the National Academies. Opportunities to Improve Airport Passenger Screening with Mass Spectrometry. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2003.


KEYWORDS:explosives, detection, peroxide-based

TECHNICAL POINT OF CONTACT:Mr. Trent DePersia, [e-mail], 202.254.6152

http://www.hsarpasbir.com/SolicitationDownload.asp#2