Aerodynamics of Explosive Detection
Abstract
The goal of this research project is the development of an airborne sampling scheme for the next- generation explosive detection portal (EDP) for aviation security screening. Although electrochemical detectors for trace explosives have already reached a high level of development, the sampling of such traces emitted from concealed explosives on the human body is comparatively naive. In particular, key aspects of the sampling problem involving fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and aerobiology have been essentially neglected to date.
This research project has a strong component of technology transfer and features a primarily- experimental approach making use of advanced, non-intrusive optical flow diagnostic instruments. Analysis and modeling are being carried out in order to understand the results of the experiments. The project concentrates on the aerodynamics of the transfer of trace material from a concealed simulated explosive-device on the human body to the input of an electrochemical detector.
Application to Homeland Security
In June of 2000 Penn State was issued U.S. Patent 6,073,499 for "A Chemical Trace Detection Portal Based on the Natural Airflow and Heat Transfer of the Human Body. The PSU patent is currently licensed by GE Infrastructure, Security, a Division of General Electric Corp.
Technologies
Publications/Talks
- Gary S. Settles, Heather C. Ferree, Michael D. Tronosky, and Zachary M. Moyer, and William J. McGann, "Natural Aerodynamic Portal Sampling of Trace Explosives from the Human Body," FAA 3rd International Symposium on Explosive Detection and Aviation Security, Nov. 26-30, 2001, Atlantic City, NJ.
- Gowadia, H. A., and Settles, G. S., "The Natural Sampling of Airborne Trace Signals from Explosives Concealed upon the Human Body," Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 46, No. 6, Nov. 2001, pp. 1324-1331.
Contact the Investigators
Gary S. Settles, Distinguished Professor of Mechanical Engineering