Advancements in Trace Detection Technology at Aberdeen Proving Ground
Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD — Researchers from the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Chemical Biological Center (DEVCOM CBC) have pioneered a revolutionary portable system designed to identify trace amounts of various substances, a long-cherished aspiration within the detection community.
The Portable Microscopy Chemical Detection System (PMCDS) is a compact, 10-pound apparatus that Soldiers can conveniently transport in the field. Its primary function is to discern minimal quantities of chemical threat particles, such as fentanyl and other narcotics, that may linger on commonly encountered surfaces.
The PMCDS employs Raman spectroscopy, a non-invasive chemical analysis technique, in conjunction with optical microscopy. This dual approach delivers preliminary detection information to operators and users managing potentially perilous materials.
The methodology unfolds in two key phases: first, the optical microscope automatically identifies potential chemical threat particles. Subsequently, a laser is directed at these particles to extract the Raman spectrum. This spectrum yields a unique chemical “fingerprint,” which is then contrasted with an extensive database of chemicals, facilitating rapid identification.
“Existing Raman systems are adept at bulk detection, meaning they excel in scenarios where the substance is visible and abundant,” stated Dr. Jason Guicheteau, a research chemist at DEVCOM CBC.
“The true challenge arises when the material becomes invisible or is present merely as residue. Traditional portable Raman systems have struggled with low-level detections, which is precisely the challenge we sought to address. We transitioned from bulk to trace detection methodologies.”
The PMCDS stands as the inaugural fully automated and portable system proficient in detecting trace amounts of substances across diverse surfaces, including bomb remnants, shrapnel, and equipment subjected to preliminary cleaning.
A notable advantage of employing this system is that the analyzed sample remains undamaged during testing, allowing it to be forwarded for additional examination.
A primary application of this innovative technology is its prospective deployment at the U.S.-Mexico southern border. Various organizations have acquired the PMCDS to assist in narcotics identification prior to their transport across the border.
Specifically, the system has recently been employed for trace fentanyl detection. Its capabilities can aid agents in pinpointing fentanyl, enabling the detention of potential suspects for broader investigations, where accuracy is paramount.
Through relentless innovation, the DEVCOM CBC team has achieved detection capabilities down to 1% fentanyl, thus assisting in thwarting the influx of harmful narcotics into the U.S.
“With the PMCDS, we can analyze an oxycodone pill seized by Customs and Border Protection. Even if the pill appears legitimate, it could be counterfeit—potentially laced with fentanyl. By scanning the pill, agents can immediately ascertain its true nature,” elaborated Guicheteau.
The journey to deploy such devices in the field has entailed a collaborative effort. The spectroscopy team at DEVCOM CBC has been instrumental in preparing the device for operational use.
Additionally, numerous teams within the Center and various external collaborators have contributed to this endeavor.
We have engaged with several other teams to augment our library of samples and pinpoint areas requiring improvement.
Feedback from these teams revealed the necessity to detect particles on a multitude of surfaces, even hours or days post-contamination, explained Dr. Ashish Tripathi, a research physical scientist at DEVCOM CBC.
“Through extensive collaboration within the Center, external partnerships, and multiple field trials, we successfully integrated performance enhancements essential for the development of the device’s second generation.”
Early adopters of the PMCDS convened with Guicheteau and Tripathi earlier in the fall to deliberate on the requirements for future iterations.
The principal objective for the subsequent generation of the device is to evolve the PMCDS into a multifaceted chemical, biological sensor capable of detecting droplets alongside solid particles.
Funding has been secured to advance this initiative, with the device slated for a comprehensive redesign to accommodate this enhanced functionality.
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