Vapor/Particle Collector/Concentrator for Explosives Trace Detection

In this Phase I project, Syagen will demonstrate the feasibility for a vapor/particle sampler for explosives de-tection consisting of a collection probe and a concentrator. We will demonstrate the interface of the sampler to mass spectrometry (MS), however, it can also be used for ion mobility spectrometry (IMS), gas chromatography (GC), and essentially all forms of optical spectroscopies that measure vapor composition (e.g., infrared, Raman, ultraviolet, mil-limeter wave, etc.). The sampler will be based on a high-throughput snorkel and sampling probe capable of collecting particles and vapor onto a concentrator device. The sampling probe will use a proven air-shower impinger to dislodge residue and particles from surfaces without making contact. The probe unit will also include an IR lamp assembly to optionally heat surfaces to improve vapor collection. The vapor, particles, and dislodged residue are swept through the sampling snorkel to a vapor/particle concentrator. The vapor and particles are then thermally desorbed to the detector for analysis. The total sampling cycling time can be as short as 5 s. In Phase I we will demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed vapor/particle collector/concentrator. The proposed automated sampling device for collecting and concentrating explosive vapors and particles for explosives trace detection meets critical needs in homeland security and the DOD. The benefit is high performance for a variety of screening situations (e.g., personnel, vehicle, baggage, surfaces). Furthermore the sampler can be interfaced to essentially any trace detector. The device has a very flexible CONOPS for a variety of applications including: (1) rapid screening of people, baggage, and vehicles, (2) force protec-tion, (3) first response, (4) treaty compliance monitoring, (5) general environmental monitoring.