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Handheld Explosive Trace Detectors


AEL Category: 07. Detection

AEL Title: Trace Detector, Explosive, Handheld

AEL Number: 07ED-01-IMOB

SAVER Project: Handheld Explosive Trace Detectors

Explosives trace detectors are used by public safety organizations to screen packages, vehicles, luggage and other items for minute residues of explosives left on them by people who have recently handled explosives. Instrument users wipe the surface of the item to be screened with a swab and insert the swab into the instrument. Analysis results are produced in less than a minute and often in less than ten seconds. Desktop-sized ETDs are used at fixed checkpoints where their relatively large size, weight, and need to operate on alternating current power can be accommodated. Alternatively, handheld ETDs used for screening activities that are mobile in nature require an easily-carried instrument that can operate on battery power.

Find this project in the FEMA Authorized Equipment List and InterAgency Board Interactive Standardized Equipment List.

Attachment Ext. Size Date
Explosive Trace Detectors Market Survey Report (November 2021) PDF 2.71 MB 11/08/2021
Handheld Explosives Trace Detectors Assessment Report (September 2020) PDF 1.04 MB 09/29/2020
Handheld Explosives Trace Detectors Focus Group Report (September 2017) PDF 660.99 KB 09/25/2017
Handheld Explosives Trace Detectors TechNote (December 2016) PDF 314.42 KB 12/19/2016
Last Updated: 01/31/2023
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