Trace detection of explosives by ion mobility spectrometry
Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS) has been used for trace detection of explosives over the last four decades due to its unique combination of detection capability with size, weight, and cost. In the post-09/11 era, Ion Mobility Spectrometry has been widely accepted to become one of the most successful technologies for the trace detection of explosives.
IMS-based Explosive Trace Detectors (ETD) are commonly used for routine security screening of individuals, cargo, and checked baggage for trace explosive residues, with tens of thousands of units installed in airports worldwide. Modern ETD systems can detect dozens of explosives in less than 10 seconds with sensitivity to picograms and low false alarms.
