Detector Technology Evaluation

Detector Technology Evaluation

Assessment of Millimeter-Wave and Terahertz Technology for Detection and Identification of Concealed Explosives and Weapons

The security of the U.S. commercial aviation system has been a growing concern since the 1970's when the hijacking of aircraft became a serious problem. Over that period, federal aviation officials have been searching for more effective ways for non-invasive screening of passengers, luggage, and cargo to detect concealed explosives and weapons. To assist in this effort, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) asked the NRC for a study of emerging screening technologies. This report-the third of four-focuses on currently maturing millimeter-wavelength/terahertz imaging and spectroscopy technologies that offer promise in meeting aviation security requirements. The report provides a description of the basic operation of these imaging systems, an assessment of their component technologies, an analysis of various system concepts, and an implementation strategy for deployment of millimeter-wavelength/terahertz technology screening systems.

Technology Assessment

Passenger rail systems are vital to the nation's transportation infrastructure, providing approximately 14 million passenger trips each weekday. Recent terrorist attacks on these systems around the world highlight the vulnerability of these systems. The Transportation Security Admin. is the primary federal entity responsible for securing passenger rail systems. This technology assessment reviewed: (1) the availability of explosives detection technologies and their ability to help secure the passenger rail environment; and (2) key operational and policy factors that impact the role of explosives detection technologies in the passenger rail environment. It analyzed test reports on various explosives detection technologies. Charts and tables.