Trace Explosives Detection Systems Standards Fact Sheet

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) partnered with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to develop calibration materials (trace explosive simulants) and methods to improve detector performance for both current and evolving threats. These synthesized materials are designed to simulate trace explosives residues so that technology developers and detector end-users can use them to validate instrument performance and perform routine measurements.