Canine training aids for HMTD detection

Physical Sciences, Inc. (PSI), proposes to prepare a new class of training aids to be used for canine detection of HMTD. These training aids are expected to incorporate the components of non-energetic off-gas from genuine HMTD. By using an HMTD headspace proxy, it will be possible to present canines with a training aid that does not carry with it the handling, disposal and other concerns associated with the use of genuine samples of the sensitive energetic material. By incorporating these headspace gases in a controlled release presentation form that does not contain significant VOC`s, keying of the canines on packaging/labeling residuals will be avoided. In Phase I, PSI will identify the off-gas associated with HMTD degradation and adsorb these gases/liquids into a porous non-polymeric mixture for delivery. The scent profile of material formulated in this way will be assessed by headspace analysis in comparison to genuine HMTD headspace analysis. In Phase II, PSI will optimize the release system, create a final packaged solution and produce 100 training aids for evaluation with DHS detection dogs. The release system proposed for these HMTD training aids is expected to have potential application in a range of explosive and narcotic canine training products.