26 March 2003
Dstl assists in the fight againist drugs
Using treasury funding of £100,000, the Defence, Science and
Technology Laboratory (Dstl) is to develop a prototype machine that
can be used to detect narcotics. The technology will use a radio frequency
spectroscopic technique known as Quadrupole Resonance (QR).
Applying techniques discovered during research into the detection of
explosives, the machine works on similar principles found in certain
hospital scanners. The system can send low frequency radio waves through
the suspect object, and, if narcotics are present, a characteristic
response informs the machine’s operator of its presence.
Commenting on its benefits, Dr. Garth Shilstone, Leader (QR group)
at Dstl explains:
“A big advantage of QR over conventional magnetic resonance scanners
is that there is no requirement for a large, heavy weight magnet. Dstl
will therefore be able to develop equipment, which will be relatively
small and ultimately very cost-effective, for screening against specific
target materials.
The technique will initially be used for screening mail and in time
the technology could be scaled up to detect narcotics in vehicles, cargo,
luggage, and for screening people. This will, in turn, reduce the need
for lengthy and costly stop and search procedures currently being used
in drug detection.”
During the one-year pilot project, due to start at the beginning of
April, Dstl will work closely with other government departments including
HM Customs and Excise and HM Prisons Service. The adaptation of QR is
a further example of how the Dstl’s defence technologies can be
adapted to aid the wider government.
End
For more information, please call:
Annabel Mead
Public Relations Manager, Dstl
asmead@dstl.gov.uk
01252 455994
07766 134 768
Notes to Editors:
Dstl
Dstl (the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory) is the centre of
scientific excellence for the Ministry of Defence, housing one of the
largest groups of scientists and engineers in public service in the
country. Its 3,000 strong workforce at sites all over the UK includes
some of the nation’s most talented and creative scientists with
the brief to ensure that the UK Armed Forces and Government are supported
in house by world class scientific advice. Dstl delivers defence research,
specialist technical services and the ability to track global technological
developments. Its capabilities compare with the best in the world, supporting
procurement decisions, defence policy making and operations.
Quadrupole resonance
Also known as nuclear quadrupole resonance (NQR), this technique uses
radio waves to probe for so-called quadrupolar nuclei, such as nitrogen
and chlorine, in solid materials. Since the frequency response changes
depending on the target material, by monitoring characteristic radio
frequencies the technique can identify materials containing such nuclei,
including most explosives, drugs, and proteins, even if the material
is concealed within a package or envelope.
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