ACT/SGER: Field Method for Trace Explosives Detection by Photoluminescence

Texas Tech University, Lubbock TX

Investigators

Abstract

ABSTRACT Professor E. Roland Menzel of Texas Tech University is developing new forensic field methods for trace explosives detection. The idea is to use photoluminescence methods analogous to current methods for fingerprint detection. The goal of this project is to develop a reliable, sensitive field method for the detection of trace amounts of explosives. The work is to develop the particular chemical and physical methods to efficiently transfer energy from a compact, battery-operated green laser to functionalized nanoparticles to optimized lanthanide-complex sensitizers. One graduate student will be involved in this work on photoluminescent explosives detection. This award is supported jointly by the NSF and the Intelligence Community. The Approaches to Combat Terrorism Program in the Directorate for Mathematics and Physical Sciences supports new concepts in basic research and workforce development with the potential to contribute to national security.