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Opioid/Fentanyl Detection

The Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) is bringing the fight to fentanyl by developing leading-edge technologies to prevent synthetic drugs and their precursors from entering the United States.

Through its research and development activities, S&T is providing DHS operators and first responders the tools they need to enhance fentanyl detection capabilities, protect personnel in high-risk environments, and disrupt criminal networks. 

These efforts highlight S&T’s pivotal role as a force-multiplier for DHS resources and capabilities in the ongoing battle against fentanyl. By driving technological advancements, S&T strengthens border security, safeguards communities, and supports the missions of DHS component agencies, including Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Transportation Security Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the U.S. Secret Service.

In addition, S&T is equipping first responders with the innovative tools and knowledge they need to keep our communities safe. 

S&T Is Developing Technology to Improve Detection and Seizure of Fentanyl 

Border cargo screening technology

Aligned with the President’s commitment to deploying state-of-the-art drug detection technology along the southwest border, S&T has significantly expanded non-intrusive inspection (NII) capabilities that enhance the detection of fentanyl and other contraband, while minimizing disruptions to lawful trade and travel. S&T partnered with CBP and the Department of the Interior to deploy advanced screening technology at four southern border ports of entry. These systems have conducted more than 1.6 million scans, screening more than 100 vehicles per hour.
  

Scientist in Lab

S&T is collaborating with a Department of Energy National Lab to research novel technologies for detecting fentanyl vapor and particles. This research directly supports CBP’s 16 Forward Operating Laboratories, which provide rapid onsite fentanyl testing for quicker law enforcement actions.

S&T funds and leads teams of data engineers and scientists to develop advanced analytics tools that integrate into the HSI RAVEN analytics platform. These tools help map and dismantle domestic and international fentanyl networks by providing key investigative insights.

ST supply chain graphic

S&T partners with the HSI Innovation Lab to identify and incorporate cutting-edge AI and machine learning technologies. These efforts include creating a fentanyl supply chain activity model aimed at providing real-time decision support during operations to disrupt the fentanyl supply chain.

Additional Efforts from Across S&T

  • Criminal Network Disruption

    S&T’s Criminal Investigations and Network Analysis (CINA) Center of Excellence is developing interdiction algorithms and network analytics to hinder the growth of criminal networks, collaborating with state and local law enforcement in high intensity drug trafficking areas to pilot these technologies.

  • Laboratory Support for Fentanyl Fight

    S&T’s Office of National Laboratories, including specialized labs like the Transportation Security Lab and Chemical Security Analysis Center, is advancing technologies and data analytics to target transnational crime organizations responsible for fentanyl distribution.

Read more about what S&T is doing to support the DHS-wide effort to keep fentanyl out of our communities.

News

Resources

Contact

OFD_STMCS@hq.dhs.gov.

 

Learn more about our R&D mission and discover how you can Work with S&T to help strengthen the nation's homeland security.

Last Updated: 12/19/2024
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