EDGEWOOD, Md., Oct. 29 (UPI) -- A new hand-held chemical identifier for analyzing suspected explosives, toxic industrial chemicals and narcotics was introduced Tuesday by Smiths Detection.
The device, the ACE-ID, is an advanced, hand-held chemical identifier that has been rigorously tested to ensure its safe use and allows explosive ordnance disposal teams, bomb squads, hazardous materials technicians, and law enforcement officers to identify unknown solids and water-based solutions in 20 seconds or less, the company, part of the British technology business Smiths Group, said.
Identification is made by using Raman spectroscopy, a laser-based technique that discerns chemicals through certain types of glass and plastics, thereby eliminating the need to physically handle potentially dangerous substances.
ACE-ID's advanced laser platform also minimizes heat to substances that could ignite if explosive, Smiths Detection said.
"Our mission is to help protect communities and those who serve them," Ian May, Smiths Detection senior vice president of sales, said in announcing the product. "ACE-ID provides an unparalleled capability to identify explosives with confidence and without the need for physical contact."
