The small size, low power, and low cost of systems featuring combinations of IMS, DMS, and QAMS components cause the system to be particularly suitable for field use.  Such features also provide the flexibility to be easily concealed, so they can be unobtrusively carried for clandestine searches or hidden at fixed or temporary checkpoints.  The systems are readily deployable at multiple checkpoints and are easily incorporated into sensor networks, and can be embodied in a portable detector across the full range of security inspection and screening applications.  Multiple sensors at checkpoints and in the hands of security agents provide high throughput inspections and wide coverage of improvised explosives devices (IED) threats in public transportation and security venues.  In high volume applications such as surveillance, IMI products can be deployed with arrays of ionizers capable of handling larger air volumes and can be mounted at strategic locations to monitor areas of high human traffic, such as, for example, in subways and in lobbies of government, military and financial buildings.

The major advantages of the IMI products include: 

a. Universal Detection of Known and Improvised Explosives.  Ion mobility and mass spectrometry are proven techniques that are capable of detecting and specifically identifying the full range of explosive compounds, including military, commercial, improvised, and home made explosives as well as correlated precursor, binders, stabilizers, and any taggant chemicals that are used to make an IED. While conventional explosives detectors, such as the ones currently deployed in airports, rely on the presence of particular molecular radicals in order to form detectable ions, mass spectrometry based instruments do not and can therefore detect a wider range of threats including peroxide and liquid explosives.  
    
b. High Probability of Detection.  IMI’s non radioactive ion sources use atmospheric pressure chemical ionization processes hence minimizing molecular fragmentation and are compatible with both positive and negative ionization of explosives molecules.  The novel IMS/DMS/QAMS analysis technique provides up to three different orthogonal detection vectors hence maximizing the probability of detection and minimizing false alarms. 

c. Flexibility: The small size enables adapting to different packaging footprints and a variety of user interfaces. Armed with remote sample collection device, the IMS/DMS/QAMS system can be incorporated into new or existing X-ray scanners and walk through portals and share the same user interface. This leads to increased security per check point without the need for additional operators (getting more security for the dollar). Built-in high sensitivity and high selectivity modes enable the user to switch from rapid screening to confirmation analysis. In non real-time applications, higher sensitivity IMS/DMS/QAMS system sniffers (with built-in fast pre-concentration devices such as MEMS miniature thermal desorbers) tackle scenarios where, due the extremely low vapor pressures of some explosives, efficiency of sample acquisition is uncertain. Other modes include forensics investigations analysis whereby the device scans for unknown substances at crime scenes. Other options include a low-cost stand-alone explosives “trigger” detector where the IMS/DMS modules alone serve as an atmospheric pressure replacement for the MS.  

d. Real-Time Operation.  Designed for real-time detection, the instruments are programmed to automatically sample, concentrate, and process aerosol and surface samples for continuous measurement, confirmation, and analysis of explosives and corollary compounds all in 1 -5 seconds from sample introduction. By coupling the automated sampling and IMS technology, it is possible to rapidly acquire and separate the target explosive vapors from background chemicals in near real time, replacing the time consuming steps of concentration and/or gas chromatography needed in typical GC/MS based detection systems. During the rapid sampling and analysis cycle (1-5 sec), the alarms are sounded (if the user desires); specific data is displayed for the operator, and wirelessly transmitted to a control unit or monitoring center in a larger network of sensors.  The programmable cycle time accommodates different sampling, analyzer, and detector scanning modes to optimize the sniffer for speed, sensitivity, specificity, and the number of target compounds. Fast (sub-sec) calibration protocols are performed automatically and continuously in order not to interfere with the operation. An indicator will flash during the calibration. In the case of a hit, a “degas” protocol will be activated in order to speed up the clear down of the sniffer. 
 
e. Safe and Easy to Operate. The IMS/DMS/QAMS systems design is inherently safe for the operators and public as compared to stand-off detectors that must employ ionizing dangerous radiation, x-rays, neutrons, microwaves, or laser energy.  While most IMS devices are mainly based on the ionization by radioactive sources as 63Ni, 241Am and 3H, our products employ harmless corona discharge which avoids radiation licensing, safety, and disposal problems.  Surface and aerosol sampling can be performed automatically and by wireless remote control allowing the operator to remain at a safe distance away from the suspected explosives package or checkpoint.  The system is small enough that it can easily be deployed on small remote controlled ground vehicles as inexpensive as a radio controlled model truck to keep the operators at a safe distance from any IED’s. Full integration will help the robot make decisions on its own and enhance its autonomy during military reconnaissance operations.   

f. Affordable. The price of a typical IMS/DMS/QAMS configuration is estimated to be under $10,000 per unit with high volume production and sales. This production cost estimate is substantiated by the current commercial price of a QAMS system (please link to image below), including RF and control electronics, currently ~$4800 at production rates of 1000 units. Using disposable components, the IMS/DMS/QAMS explosives detector is designed to operate over long periods with minimal life cycle operating and maintenance cost.