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Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) has been awarded a contract from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to develop a compact checkpoint sensor for the non-contact detection and identification of hazardous chemicals in containers.

The sensor is based on PSI’s existing spatial heterodyne spectrometer (SHS) based Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5 Raman sensor that has demonstrated performance for non-contact bulk explosive detection. The SHS can achieve two times higher signal-to-noise-ratios than conventional slit-based systems resulting in up to four times improvement in detection limits. An on-board machine learning based detection algorithm (developed by PSI for Raman sensors) provides a threat decision and chemical ID. The sensor will provide versatile, rapid and sensitive detection of chemical hazards in liquid, gel or powder matrices through the opening of a container or directly through clear or translucent container walls. The sensor is non-contact and requires no physical sampling, ensuring safety of operating personnel, and fills a critical need in chemical detection.

For more information, contact:

Dr. Julia Dupuis
Vice President, Tactical Systems
jdupuis@psicorp.com
Physical Sciences Inc.
Telephone: (978) 689-0003

Acknowledgement of Sponsorship: This work is supported under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office. This support does not constitute an express or implied endorsement on the part of the Government.