Stand off chemical detection
Mobile system for real-time non-contact detection of target materials
Avacta is developing a Raman based real-time chemical detection system ideal for identification of chemical hazards. The hazard could be as small as 2mm diameter at several meters stand-off. Such technology is ideal for field use such as the detection of chemical hazards for the military or first responders.
Where as many current mobile chemical hazard detection systems rely on the need to collect samples for analysis, which often takes place on-board the vehicle, Avacta’s advanced technology is truly non-contact, designed to interrogate the ground in-front of the moving platform with a laser ‘curtain’ warning the driver of potential hazards before the vehicle becomes contaminated.
Raman spectroscopy is used as the detection technology, Raman signals are inherently difficult to detect in many conditions because of the strength of background signals, this problem is particularly apparent when attempting to detect at long stand-off distances in daylight. Avacta’s technology provides the ability to increase signal to background ratio by 6-7 orders of magnitude through applying a specially developed time-gating capability
Key features:
- Identification using Raman fingerprint technology
- Detection made by comparison to internal library of known hazardous substances
- Pattern matching algorithms provide high confidence spectral matching in real-time
- Operates in daylight
- Detects at around 10m stand off
- Auto-focus capability to ensure optimum sensitivity
- Easy to use, rugged, vehicle portable