New Explosive Detection Ink May Improve Airport Security
Kyle Farquharson — April 6, 2011 — Tech
References: sciencedaily
Most airline travelers would agree that airport security, for better or worse, has become extreme. But thanks to a new technology developed in the United States, pat-downs, full-body scans and the seizure of carry-on liquids may soon be history.
Scientists have developed a metallic oxide-based nanomaterial in the form of ink that changes color -- from dark blue to pale yellow or transparent -- in the presence of explosive vapors. The explosive detection ink can be sprayed onto suspicious packages, or incorporated into test-strips that would detect the presence of hydrogen peroxide, the same explosive material found in the footwear of thwarted shoe-bomber Richard Reid in 2001. So far, hydrogen peroxide detection has been a challenge for both airport security officials and troops stationed overseas.
Interestingly, large quantities of the metallic oxide ink can also be used to neutralize hydrogen peroxide bombs. Oklahoma State University chemist Allen Apblett, who is one of the researchers behind the advent of the nanomaterial, says he hopes the bomb-detecting ink will be featured in airport security procedures within a year.
Scientists have developed a metallic oxide-based nanomaterial in the form of ink that changes color -- from dark blue to pale yellow or transparent -- in the presence of explosive vapors. The explosive detection ink can be sprayed onto suspicious packages, or incorporated into test-strips that would detect the presence of hydrogen peroxide, the same explosive material found in the footwear of thwarted shoe-bomber Richard Reid in 2001. So far, hydrogen peroxide detection has been a challenge for both airport security officials and troops stationed overseas.
Interestingly, large quantities of the metallic oxide ink can also be used to neutralize hydrogen peroxide bombs. Oklahoma State University chemist Allen Apblett, who is one of the researchers behind the advent of the nanomaterial, says he hopes the bomb-detecting ink will be featured in airport security procedures within a year.
Trend Themes
1. Explosive Detection Ink - Development of metallic-oxide-based nanomaterial in the form of ink that changes color in the presence of explosive vapors creates opportunities for improved security measures.
2. Test-strip Technology - Incorporation of explosive detection ink into test-strips provides the ability to detect hydrogen peroxide, a known explosive material.
3. Neutralizing Metallic Oxide Ink - Large quantities of metallic oxide ink can be used to neutralize hydrogen peroxide bombs, creating potential for improved safety measures in high-risk environments.
Industry Implications
1. Airport Security - Explosive detection ink provides a more efficient and effective way for airport security officials to screen for potential threats.
2. Military and Defense - Test-strip technology and the neutralizing abilities of metallic oxide ink create opportunities for improved safety measures for troops and civilians in high-risk environments.
3. Chemical Manufacturing - Development of metallic-oxide-based nanomaterials and their incorporation into ink could signal a potential new area for chemical manufacturers to explore and invest in.
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