Applications of Quantum Cascade Laser Scanners for Remote Detection of Chemical and Biological Threats and Weapons of Mass Destruction
Abstract
The main objective of the project was to strengthen the existing research program in "Counter Weapons of Mass Destruction". Commercial QCL based, near field spectroscopic detection systems have been fully evaluated and successful used in detection and discrimination of explosives on test surfaces. The focus of the third year was to locate at the "needle in the haystack". That is, discriminating for nearly trace amounts of explosives and other threat agents against a highly interfering background: the substrates on which these are deposited. Highly interfering substrates (non-reflective, non-ideal substrates) were used to test powerful multivariate analysis routines utilized for discriminating for the target chemical/biological threats against the predominant signals from the background substrates. Among the substrates used were cardboard, wood, plastics and luggage materials. Research has also focused on measuring the infrared signals at off conventional back-reflection geometry. Both thermal and laser sources were used to collect signals from target chemicals at ranges of 1-4 m and angles from 0 to 80 deg. Ambient IR spectra will also be measured under various atmospheric conditions to establish baseline measurements. This work focused on enhancing established technology and introducing novel concepts in standoff detection.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 09, 2014
- Accession Number
- ADA616228
Entities
People
- Samuel P Hernández-Rivera
Organizations
- University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez