Use of a Fiber Optic Probe for the Detection and Identification of Explosive Materials by Raman Spectroscopy

Abstract

Abstract A fiber optic probe has been developed that allows Raman spectra to be acquired remotely from a spectrometer. This system has been used to acquire spectra from explosive materials. In this study we demonstrate that it is sufficiently sensitive to rapidly detect traces of PETN in fingerprints of Semtex-Hexplosive. Further development of similar systems will enable the detection and non-destructive identification of contraband materials in the field.