OL5.NOV–AIL Systems Inc.–wy
Spectrometer zeros in on illegal drugs remotely
A new type of spectrometer holds great promise for use in the war against
illegal drugs, as well as in the detection of chemical weapons and
industrial pollutants. Developed by AIL Systems Inc., Deer Park, NY, the
spectrometer is known as the Remote Monitoring Fourier Transformer
Spectrometer (FTS). The device employs advanced spectral-processing
techniques to detect and identify otherwise imperceptible traces of gases
and vapors released into the atmosphere during drug and chemical
production, chemical warfare, and industrial manufacturing. Electronic
circuits within the spectrometer are designed to detect the unique
spectral fingerprint of molecules known to be present in a particular
effluent. The FTS differs from other methods of effluent detection and
analysis in that physical contact of the sensor with the molecules
themselves is not required. Rather, the FTS compares the intensity of
infrared light detected at many different wavelengths to determine whether
a particular type of molecule, and therefore, a particular chemical agent,
is present/ The Remote Monitoring FTS can be mounted on a moving
platform, such as an unmanned airborne vehicle, a helicopter or airplane,
a ground vehicle, or even a space platform. Current monitoring systems, on
the other hand, must remain stationary to work effectively. Furthermore,
unlike other spectrometers, the FTS can be adjusted to provide up to 10
times the detection sensitivity of fixed-resolution instruments. –Warren
Yates
For further information, call AIL systems, Inc.
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