Chemical Threat Detection Guide: Hand-held Chemical Agent Monitor: RAID-M Series

Significance of the Topic

The rapid and reliable detection of chemical warfare agents (CWA) and toxic industrial chemicals (TIC) is critical for military, civilian and industrial safety. Hand-held detectors empower first responders, military units and industrial operators to identify hazards on the spot, enabling rapid decision-making and mitigating risk to people and assets.

Objectives and Overview

This whitepaper presents the Bruker RAID-M Series hand-held chemical agent monitors. It outlines their design based on ion mobility spectrometry (IMS), performance characteristics, operational modes and deployment options across military, civilian and industrial settings.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The RAID-M Series employs IMS to ionise and separate target molecules by mobility in a drift tube. Two variants are available:

• RAID-M100: uses a low-level Ni-63 radioactive source
• RAID-MNR: uses a non-radioactive high-energy photoionisation (HEPI) source

Both share identical form factor, user interface and consumables. Detection algorithms classify threats into G, H and T agent categories with real-time quantification via an 8-segment bar display. Automatic backflush protects the cell from overload and accelerates recovery.

Key Findings and Discussion

Field data indicate:

• Detection limits in low ppb range for CWAs (e.g., GA, VX) and TICs (e.g., toluene diisocyanate, dimethyl sulphate)
• Response times of a few seconds
• High specificity and interference rejection via proprietary algorithms
• Continuous logging of up to 3 000 events and 30 spectral records for post-mission analysis

Benefits and Practical Applications

The RAID-M Series offers:

• Factory calibration for life, eliminating field calibration
• Operator-replaceable consumables and rechargeable battery providing 7 h runtime
• Optional powered/unpowered vehicle mounts for mobile platform operation
• Separate display zones for independent monitoring of agent classes

Applications include reconnaissance patrols, civilian CBRN teams, industrial leak detection and process monitoring.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advances in miniaturised IMS sensors and AI-driven spectral analysis will further reduce false alarms and expand the detectable compound range. Integration with networked command systems and automated unmanned vehicles will enhance situational awareness and remote monitoring capabilities.

Conclusion

The Bruker RAID-M Series combines proven IMS technology with rugged design and user-friendly operation. It sets a benchmark for hand-held chemical threat detectors by delivering sensitivity, specificity and reliability required for modern CBRN and industrial safety missions.

Reference

Bruker Optics BOPT – CBRNE #1843145 (2021)