Development of Trace Explosive Detection Standards

Abstract

Abstract The lask of defining detection standards for trace explosive detectors, similar to those used with bulk detectors, is not straightforward. Difficulty arises because the relation between the mass of concealed explosive within a package and the quantity of telltale vapor or other trace residue around the exterior of the package is not predictable. Nevertheless, it is possible to formulate meaningful test procedures that can be used to quantify detector performance in terms of minimum detectable trace levels. Such test procedures, outlined here, could be useful in establishing detection criteria for evaluation or certification purposes.