Possibilities for Standoff Raman Detection Applications for Explosives

This paper provides a brief overview of the Raman-based standoff detection methods developed at FOI for the purpose of standoff explosives detection. The methods concerned are Raman imaging for particle detection and Resonance Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy for vapor detection. These methods are today reaching a maturity level that makes it possible to consider applications such as trace residue field measurements, on site post blast analysis and other security of explosives related applications. The paper will look into future possible applications of these technologies. Our group has extensive activities in applications of the technology, among others in projects for the Seventh Framework Program of the European Union. Some of these possible applications will be described and a look into future development needs will be made. As far as possible, applicability will be discussed with a view on realistic explosives trace availability for detection. Necessary data to make such realistic applicability assessment is not always available and a brief discussion on the applicability of using the developed Raman technology to obtain this kind of data will also be made. The aspects of transitioning from research to practical applications, considering also eye-safety of the system, will be discussed as well.