Screening for Sensitive Explosives with Agilent Resolve - a Handheld SORS System

Significance of the Topic

Rapid and safe identification of sensitive explosives is essential in security screening, forensic investigations, and industrial safety. Traditional handheld Raman instruments focus high‐power laser spots on small areas, increasing the risk of detonation or deflagration during analysis.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application note evaluates the performance and safety of the Agilent Resolve handheld Raman system, which employs spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS) to screen a variety of primary and sensitive explosive materials under realistic field conditions.

Methodology and Instrumentation

• Instrument: Agilent Resolve handheld Raman system using proprietary SORS optics.
• Laser settings: Maximum power 475 mW, large‐diameter spot to reduce power density.
• Measurement modes: Point‐and‐shoot through clear bags or direct analysis of samples in glass vials.
• Safety features: Scan delay timer and remote trigger to allow operator retreat; adjustable laser power settings.
• Test site: Range trials conducted at Alford Technologies Broadmead Quarry facility (Somerset, UK).

Main Results and Discussion

All tested materials—including silver fulminate, mercury fulminate, lead azide, HMTD, TATP, nitrocellulose, and others—were accurately identified within 30–40 s without any instances of detonation or deflagration. The larger laser spot and high optical throughput yielded high signal‐to‐noise spectra, enabling reliable matching against extensive reference libraries.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Enhanced operator safety through reduced risk of accidental ignition.
• Rapid field screening of primary and secondary explosives.
• High‐quality spectra for confident identification from large chemical libraries.
• Suitable for deployment in security checkpoints, forensic labs, and QA/QC workflows.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advancements may include integration of machine learning for automated spectral interpretation, further miniaturization of handheld units, expansion of reference databases, and networked devices for real‐time remote monitoring and threat intelligence.

Conclusion

The Agilent Resolve handheld Raman SORS system delivers safe, rapid, and accurate on‐site identification of sensitive explosives. Its unique optical design minimizes laser power density, significantly lowering the risk of detonation while maintaining exceptional data quality.

Reference

• Stokes R., Presly O., Agilent Technologies, Inc. Application Note 5991-8871EN, March 2018.