Sensors for chemical weapons detection

Abstract

Many methods can sense and respond to chemical agent release. We evaluate current and near-term sensor options for detecting the most likely threats, currently sarin, cyanide, and pesticides. We also identify sensor technologies that may be capable of responding to additional chemical threats and biological agents and provide options for coping with new threats as they develop. We collate previous research results on background contaminants that have the potential of introducing unwanted false alarms in chemical agent detection systems and suggest techniques that may be capable of reducing the impact of releases of toxic materials.