Detector Can Identify Explosives Used in the Brussels Terror Attack

Detector Can Identify Explosives Used in the Brussels Terror Attack

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A non-radioactive, hand-held explosive threat detector, now has the additional capability to detect and identify TATP (Triacetone Triperoxide). This was the explosive substance used in the terrorist attack in Brussels in March 2016.  

This much-needed capability will enable users of TRACE-PRO to identify traces of TATP easily and aid covert operations or security operators to screen people, objects and materials in any location.

The detector was newly launched by Smiths Detection.

Shan Hood, Vice President, Products & Technology, Smiths Detection said “Due to its chemical makeup, TATP can be difficult to detect and TRACE-PRO now provides an easy to use solution to identify this challenging substance. Since TRACE-PRO’s launch in November 2015 we have seen considerable interest in customers wanting to use this advanced technology for a wide range of applications, including the military, police, airports and hotels.”

According to the company’s announcement, the device is a hand-held detector for fast identification and evidence collection of common explosives and can deliver a result in less than 10 seconds. Swabs can be taken from people, objects and materials in any location and the in-built camera and GPS facilitate easy evidence collection – allowing the user to record and store data in the immediate location of the suspect substance.

It is suited to a variety of environments and situations. It is ergonomically designed, weighs just 1.7 kg and is the only detector that can be powered by AA commercial batteries. It requires minimal user training due to its intuitive software and provides a low cost of ownership through its re-usable swabs and basic maintenance requirements.