Advanced LWIR Hyperspectral System for On-the-Move Standoff Detection of Liquid Contaminants on Surfaces

Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to utilize an innovative LWIR hyperspectral technology coupled with advanced data processing algorithms for non-contact, passive standoff detection of liquid contaminants on surfaces. The technology will address the US Army"s need for fast, passive, on-the-move, non-contact detection of ground contamination during reconnaissance missions. The Phase I effort will focus on demonstrating the feasibility of the proposed on-the-move approach by validating signal models with field data collected against liquid agent simulant particles of relevant sizes. Improved SCR (Signal-to-clutter ratio) will be demonstrated through the use of innovative algorithms in conjunction with polarization-enhanced hyperspectral detection and an optional LWIR illumination sub-system for contrast enhancement. In a successful Phase II program, PSI will develop and evaluate a TRL 5 prototype system capable of on-the-move (~10 mph) detection of contaminant particles with surface density of 0.5 g/cm2 with Pd>90%.