Smiths Detection’s TRACE-PRO device now identifies TATP

Smiths Detection on Wednesday released new features for their non-radioactive, hand-held explosive threat detector, called the TRACE-PRO, that now has the additional capability to detect and identify triacetone triperoxide (TATP).

TATP is notable for its use in a recent terrorist attack in Brussels. The added capability will allow the device to identify traces of TATP and assist security operators in screening individuals, objects and materials in any location.

“We are very proud to announce the addition of TATP detection capability to TRACE-PRO,” Shan Hood, vice president of products and technology for Smiths Detection, said. “This has been a priority for our customers. Due to its chemical makeup, TATP can be difficult to detect and TRACE-PRO now provides an easy to use solution to identify this challenging substance. Since TRACE-PRO’s launch in November 2015 we have seen considerable interest in customers wanting to use this advanced technology for a wide range of applications, including the military, police, airports and hotels.”

The device’s ruggedized exterior suits a variety of environments, while weighing only 3.7 pounds. It is the only explosive detector that can be powered by AA commercial batteries. The device can deliver a result in less than 10 seconds and requires minimal user training.