Every swipe of a swab at airport security could uncover a trace of danger.
Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS) is the analytical powerhouse behind explosive detection at airports. This portable and rapid technique identifies trace chemicals by measuring how ions move through a drift tube filled with gas. With IMS, security personnel can detect minute residues of explosive materials on luggage or hands in just seconds, ensuring passenger safety.
Here’s how IMS works in explosive detection:
The Swab - A small cloth or paper swab collects particles or residues from surfaces like luggage handles or personal items. Common targets include traces of nitrates or organic compounds used in explosives.
Ionization - The collected sample is introduced into the IMS device, where it is vaporized and ionized, often using a radioactive source or corona discharge. This converts the molecules into charged particles (ions).
Drift Tube Separation - The ions travel through a drift tube under an electric field. Lighter and more compact ions move faster, while heavier or larger ions move slower, creating a time-based separation.
Detection - The instrument compares the travel times of the ions to a library of known explosive signatures. If a match is found, the system raises an alert.
By combining precision, speed, and portability, IMS allows airports to detect potential threats in real time, making it a cornerstone of modern security.