Chapter 1 - Detection of explosives by chemiluminescence

Abstract

This chapter aims to understand the various advantages of trace detection systems based on Chemiluminiscence (CL) for the detection of explosives containing nitrogen. The literature discusses 25 years' research and advancement in the field of CL and its use for the detection of explosives. The earliest papers of the 70s and 80s have been used because they comprehensively discuss how the various techniques work. The basic aim is to provide an understanding of the potential and implementation of CL systems for detecting trace explosives. The first section of the chapter is an introduction that describes the concept and principles of CL and how it can be utilized in the field of explosives. The second section describes the application of CL in the field of explosives with focus on thermal energy analyzer (TEA), because it has an important role to play in trace detection of explosives. It also describes the applications of Luminol CL and Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) for the detection of explosives. The final section describes how CL can be used to detect explosives for security measures. This is because much of this research is directed toward the safety of civilians.