Sensors detect and distinguish explosives
Chemists at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, have developed complex molecules containing zinc for use in portable sensors that quickly and reliably detect the presence of plastic explosives.
Sensors containing the zinc complexes are the first devices that allow the user to identify which type of explosive is present, since each metal complex has a unique response to explosives and explosive mimics.
Commenting, Michael Knapp, an assistant professor of chemistry at the University, said: “This is a big improvement over existing sensors based on polymers, since the metal complexes can discriminate between closely related explosives compounds.
“This ability is a real advantage for airport security personnel and law enforcement officials, who need to quickly detect and identify what type of explosives they are dealing with.”
Read more on: complex molecules, Electronics, explosives, material, Military, sensor, sensors, zinc
