Scanner May Be Answer To Spotting Terrorists

A new device that can spot tiny amounts of explosive particles could be the answer to protecting the public from terrorism.

The Explosive Residue Detection system – developed by Loughborough University – can scan crowded areas such as airports and train stations remotely, automatically alerting an operator if it finds traces of explosives.

The system is non-evasive, works in real time, causes no delays to passengers and is fully automated which means human error can be ruled out, its developers say.

And a key point, they argue, is that, unlike the Whole Body Imaging which Prime Minister Gordon Brown has called for, the images the ERD produces are no more controversial than those generated by CCTV.

The machine uses the latest generation of pulsed lasers and video camera techniques and combines them to produce a large-area, fluorescent, lifetime imaging system.

By controlling the laser timing and optical filters, direct imaging of explosive residue will be exposed and, if explosive residue is spotted, the system automatically signals the result to a human.

Project leader Professor John Tyrer has been working in the terrorism and counter-terrorism field for more than 20 years and says metal detectors and scanning machines are no longer enough.

Controversial full-body scanner

“When terrorists were going to plant a bomb and then walk away, they were adequate,” Professor Tyrer told Sky News Online.

“But now suicide bombers have become part of the terrorism plan, transport security has to be tightened up while, at the same time, allowing the public to move through quickly.

“Our machine means that every person in the area can be scanned in a non-invasive way – unlike the WBI system – which is something the public wants.”

Professor Tyrer’s team are conducting trials of the machine but, he says, politicians need to speed matters up.

“We can’t wait for another attack before the matter is talked about again,” he warned.

It is not cost concerns, he insists, that are the problems – the system cost is about the same as an X-ray one currently in use – just the decision-making process.

“From an economic point of view, it makes sense. Tourism is a very important part of the UK’s economy and, if people don’t feel safe, they won’t come here – particularly if they’re from the key US market.”

“The latest attack highlights the worldwide need for explosive residue detection that is quick, accurate, non-evasive and does not cause major delays for the travelling public.