Remote Deployment of Explosive Detection Material

MSI successfully demonstrated modification of its existing extended range 40mm non-lethal munition to carry and deploy a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) payload intended to detect and confirm explosives at 100m stand-off. Based on analysis and air-gun testing, as well as legacy performance of MSIs munition, key characteristics of the explosive detection munition include over 25 square inch coverage area, 90% accuracy to 100 meters, non-lethality, and leveraging the use of an existing launcher (M-203), in addition to the objective of conveyance of various marking and/ or noxious liquids or powders. The Phase I project starting point was a high-TRL extended range kinetic energy non-lethal 40mm munition, demonstrated to possess ballistic stability and accuracy at 100m, as developed under a previous Phase II/II Plus project funded by Picatinny Arsenal. In A12-007 Phase I, MSI succeeded in consistently achieving the coverage area and visibility requirements specified, demonstrating explosive detection feasibility. Phase II goals include: a) achieve TRL 6+ with special attention to statistical demonstration of coverage, accuracy, nonlethality, and manufacturability, b) expand the product to include alternate explosive material detection chemicals, and c) establish a larger family of 40 non-lethal mm projectiles to deliver IR marking material, pepper spray, etc.