Imaging standoff trace detection of explosives using IR-laser based backscattering

F. Fuchs; S. Hugger; J. Jarvis; Q. K. Yang; R. Ostendorf; Ch. Schilling; W. Bronner; R. Driad; R. Aidam; J. Wagner

doi:10.1117/12.2223581

25 May 2016 Imaging standoff trace detection of explosives using IR-laser based backscattering

F. Fuchs, S. Hugger, J. Jarvis, Q. K. Yang, R. Ostendorf, Ch. Schilling, W. Bronner, R. Driad, R. Aidam, J. Wagner

Proceedings Volume 9836, Micro- and Nanotechnology Sensors, Systems, and Applications VIII; 98362I (2016) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2223581
Event: SPIE Defense + Security, 2016, Baltimore, MD, United States

Abstract

We perform active hyperspectral imaging using tunable mid-infrared (MIR) quantum cascade lasers for contactless identification of solid and liquid contaminations on surfaces. By collecting the backscattered laser radiation with a camera, a hyperspectral data cube, containing the spatially resolved spectral information of the scene is obtained. Data is analyzed using appropriate algorithms to find the target substances even on substrates with a priori unknown spectra. Eye-save standoff detection of residues of explosives and precursors over extended distances is demonstrated and the main purpose of our system. Using a MIR EC-QCL with a tuning range from 7.5 μm to 10 μm, detection of a large variety of explosives, e.g. TNT, PETN and RDX and precursor materials such as Ammonium Nitrate could be demonstrated. In a real world scenario stand-off detection over distances of up to 20 m could be successfully performed. This includes measurements in a post blast scenario demonstrating the potential of the technique for forensic investigations.

Citation Download Citation

F. Fuchs, S. Hugger, J. Jarvis, Q. K. Yang, R. Ostendorf, Ch. Schilling, W. Bronner, R. Driad, R. Aidam, and J. Wagner "Imaging standoff trace detection of explosives using IR-laser based backscattering", Proc. SPIE 9836, Micro- and Nanotechnology Sensors, Systems, and Applications VIII, 98362I (25 May 2016); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2223581

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