Homeland Security

The zNose® is the first electronic nose designed for security applications and was featured at a recent ASIS-2005 International Security Exhibition. Based upon ultra-high speed gas chromatography, the zNose® is a powerful new tool for detection of odors and chemical vapors produced by explosives, chemical and biological weapons, contraband of all kinds, hazardous industrial materials, improvised explosives, and flammable materials.

Unlike trace detectors which only detect a few select compounds, electronic noses recognize odors and fragrances based upon their full chemical signature. The zNose® detects ALL compounds within an odor and provides full chemical profile. Even materials like TATP used in the recent London Underground bombings can easily be detected. Using ultra-high speed chromatography to separate chemicals in near real time, pattern recognition and trace detection can be performed in seconds. The zNose® is designed to complement rather than replace conventional trace detectors and canines.

There are many homeland security and law enforcement applications for electronic noses, such as screening and monitoring public buildings and transportation facilities, searching cargo containers and vehicles for contraband, and detecting hidden explosives and chemical weapons. In addition 1st responders can use an electronic nose to analyze suspicious odors and police to detect chemical odors from clandestine drug laboratories. The zNose® can adaptively learn to recognize, and alert on any target odor. Additional details and links to technical papers can be found in the following sections:

Security Screening in Public Buildings and Transportation Facilities
Locating contraband in cargo containers, trucks, and vehicles
Odors from Explosives and Chemical Weapons