This book is about improving prohibited substances detection using the nuclear quadrupole resonance (NQR) technique at security checkpoints. The book proposes multiple signal processing and analysis techniques for improving detection of dangerous or contraband substances, such as explosives, narcotics, or toxic substances. Also, several hardware solutions are described and implemented in a custom-designed NQR spectrometer. A new approach to NQR signal detection is introduced using artificial intelligence/deep learning techniques. The book will be useful for for researchers and practitioners in the areas of electrical engineering, signal processing and analysis, applied spectroscopy, as well as for security or laboratory equipment manufacturers.

This book is about improving prohibited substances detection using the nuclear quadrupole resonance (NQR) technique at security checkpoints. The book proposes multiple signal processing and analysis techniques for improving detection of dangerous or contraband substances, such as explosives, narcotics, or toxic substances. Also, several hardware solutions are described and implemented in a custom-designed NQR spectrometer. A new approach to NQR signal detection is introduced using artificial intelligence/deep learning techniques. The book will be useful for for researchers and practitioners in the areas of electrical engineering, signal processing and analysis, applied spectroscopy, as well as for security or laboratory equipment manufacturers.

Detection of concealed explosives is a notoriously difficult problem, and many different approaches have been proposed to solve this problem. Nuclear quadrupole resonance (NQR) is unique in many ways. It operates in a safe AM radio frequency range, and it can remotely detect unique “fingerprint” (NQR spectrum) of many explosives, such as TNT or RDX. As such, the detection of target does not depend on the shape or material of the container, or the presence of metallic object such as triggers etc. Spectra of chemically similar compounds differ enough that their presence never causes interference or false alarms. Unfortunately, widespread use is prevented due to low sensitivity, radiofrequency interference from the noisy environment, and inability to detect liquid explosives. This book presents current state of the art of the attempts to overcome NQR sensitivity problem, either by increasing the strengths of signals generated, or by increasing the specificity of the technique through a better understanding of the factors that affect the quadrupolar parameters of specific explosives. The use of these specific quadrupolar parameters is demonstrated on signal processing techniques that can detect weak signals, which are hidden in a noisy background. The problem of differentiation of liquid explosives and benign liquids in closed containers is approached by measurements of different nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) parameters. As shown, a couple of solutions has reached a prototype stage and could find their use in a near future.

"Cover-to-cover reading of Plastics Additives, Advanced Industrial Analysis, is recommended for both professional analysts and plastics technologists. Professor Bart’s prose style is easy to read. A professional background in analytical chemistry is not assumed. Particularly valuable is the trove of good advice as to which approach might be best in a given situation. Every department with a serious interest in additive / property relations should invest in a copy.” -- PMAD Newsletter. This industrially relevant and up-to-date resource deals with all established and emerging analytical methods for in-polymer additive analysis of plastics formulations. Quality assurance and industrial troubleshooting all benefit from direct analysis modes. Plastics Additives comprises detailed coverage of solid-state spectroscopy, thermal analysis and pyrolysis, laser techniques, surface studies and microanalysis along with process analytics, quantitative analysis and modern method development and validation applied to additives in polymers. The book is organised for quick and easy reference and is extensively illustrated with over 200 figures, 300 flow diagrams and tables to facilitate rapid understanding of this topic, and it contains 4000 references. Emphasis is on understanding (principles and characteristics) and industrial applicability.

Detection and quantification of trace chemicals is a major thrust of analytical chemistry. In recent years much effort has been spent developing detection systems for priority pollutants. Less mature are the detections of substances of interest to law enforcement and security personnel:in particular explosives. This volume will discuss the detection of these, not only setting out the theoretical fundamentals, but also emphasizing the remarkable developments in the last decade. Terrorist events—airplanes blown out of the sky (PanAm 103 over Lockerbie) and attacks on U.S. and European cities (Trade Center in New York and the Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, railways in London and Madrid)--emphasize the danger of concealed explosives. However, since most explosives release little vapor, it was not possible to detect them by technology used on most organic substances. After PanAm 103 was downed over Scotland, the U.S. Congress requested automatic explosive detection equipment be placed in airports. This volume outlines the history of explosive detection research, the developments along the way, present day technologies, and what we think the future holds. - Written by experts in the field who set out both the scientific issues and the practical context with authority - Discusses and describes the threat - Describes the theoretical background and practical applications of both trace and bulk explosives detection

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