Application of Quantum Cascade Lasers to High Explosive Detection

During the past few years, and particularly in the last few months after the events of the September 11 terrorist attack, the need of a portable remote-detection system for chemicals agents and explosives has become a priority and necessity to combatglobal terrorism and confront modern chemical and biological warfare. The present times also offer significant advanced in science and technology to solve critical problems. This project will develop a portable remote sensing system for detectingexplosives and chemical agents. The system will use Raman spectroscopy, quantum cascade lasers, and Lidar technology. The program described in this Phase I proposal will determine the feasibility of the concept of an IR Lidar Raman system based in a lowresolution Raman spectrometer and the use of QC lasers as the excitation source in the IR region. Completion and performance of the proposed system will follow in Phase II. There is a need for advanced chemical detection sensors. The application of aportable chemical detection system based in Lidar technology is broad. Extending from identification of harmful clouds and vapors, remote detection of high explosives, drug smuggling surveillance and detection, to environmental remote analysis.