Explosives, Mines and Gun Detector Manual and Specifications - For Demining Operators, Non Profig Organizations and Governement Agencies

[Jose Pereira]

CHELWORTH INVESTMENTS LTD.
LARGO DO MASTRO 34 R/C  1150-229 LISBOA PORTUGAL
351-21-885-3935 - FAX:351-21-885-1077


MINES AND EXPLOSIVE DETECTOR

An Alternative Technology for Detection of Explosives



Background
The market for explosive detection systems (EDS) is dynamic. In response to new threats, and because of new understandings in the fields of science, coupled with evermore sophisticated precision instrumentation and technology, the EDS industry is experiencing rapid changes and realignment. Recent science and technology advances, which have miniaturized systems, and decreased costs and skill level requirements, have opened the door for practical EDS to non-traditional markets. 

Historically, EDS equipment has been used in restrictive settings such as to screen high volume traffic (at airport screening points, border crossing points, etc.), and for de-mining. This limited scope stems from a combination of high equipment costs, specialized skill requirements for operators, and the need to control the environment within which EDS is used in order to achieve a high probability of detection and low false alarm rates.

In the United States the requirements for a portable EDS were defined in “Defense Technology Objectives for Year 2002” which calls for the development of new technology which can… “Demonstrate the detection of 100 lbs. of explosive materials at a standoff distance greater than 100 ft in 2 minutes or less with a false alarm rate of <5%.”, and which emphasizes  “...systems designed for portable operation”. Chelworth believes its explosives detection devise can not only meet but also far exceed this requirement.

Sniffex was designed to be used by those who have legitimate concerns about threats from unauthorized explosives and munitions. Because of its low cost, portability, and ease of use, Sniffex is applicable to a wide variety of market segments. 

Product Description
Sniffex is unique to all known EDS products, both existing and under development. Most detection systems are typically too cost prohibitive and limited in scope to be adequate for use in public schools, in banks, on police patrols, or military troop use. It is a pocket sized, hand held device that detects numerous types of explosives on the basis of the presence of nitro oxide ions. The energy source in Sniffex creates an excite signal, unique for this method of detection. A two-point interference field has a line of prominence along an axis between the source signal and the target material. Using this approach of detecting an interference field pattern an operator can identify the presence of Nitro oxides ions. Determining the line of prominence gives direction to the material and its location is achieved through triangulation. Two or three measurements from different directions are required for precise location of a target. In addition to being able to detect explosives in open areas, Sniffex can penetrate concrete as well as metals structures, containers, and vehicles. 

Sniffex operators need only a few hours of education and training provided by an authorized instructor to become proficient. Like any precision tool, practice increases the users skills. Training classes and practical “on the job” training increase the users accuracy in localizing explosives. 

Product Testing
In March of 2005, Sniffex was tested at the Energetic Material Research and Testing Center (EMRTC), one of the most prestigious testing centers in the United States. Testers were repeatedly able to detect a variety of nitro-based explosives from 30 or more feet, behind building walls and inside vehicles. Extracts of their report are available at “sniffex.com” and included in this document.

An official test was done in the Executive Agency “Testing and Control Measurements of Armaments, Equipments and Property” at the Ministry of Defence, Republic of Bulgaria. The final conclusion of the commission, after nine different test scenarios was: “The personal device for explosives localization - SNIFFEX” sample 001 is able to localize explosives and gunpowder in quantities, exceeding 50 g., within the declared and wider range.” 

Arsenal Co., the biggest Bulgarian military and special equipment supplier,
produced the first one hundred units in May 2004. The device was presented at International Military Fair in Paris in June. Their report on the usage of Sniffex during this period is also included herein.

Product Specifications

Size
Length: 35 mm;
Width: 32 mm;
Height: 100 mm;
Weight of the product: 550 g.  
	
Detection Ability
Detection rate for > 100 g active compound, behind barrier: -  2 - 5m        >90%
Detection rate for >1000 g active compound behind barrier: - 10 - 20m      >90%
Total false rate:                                                                                               < 10%
Operational temperature:                                                                  -20°C - +35°C
Wind:                                                                                                        up to 1m/s

Tested compounds
1.	 TNT
2.	Dynamite
3.	Ammonite (diesel)
4.	PETN
5.	RDX
6.	Gunpowder
7.	Semtex
8.	C4



For More detailed information please contact our office at:

Chelworth Investments Ltd
Largo Do Mastro 34 R/C
1150-229 Lisboa Portugal
351-21-885-39-31
351-21-885-10-77

or email us at address@hidden

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