We describe the proof
of concept of a portable testing
setup for
the detection of triacetone triperoxide (TATP), a common component
in improvised explosive devices. The system allows for field testing
and generation of real-time results to test for TATP vapor traces
in air by simply using circulation of the air samples through the
sensing mechanism under the air conditioning system of an ordinary
room. In this way, the controlled trapping of the analyte in the chemical
sensor gives reliable results at extremely low concentrations of TATP
in air under real-life conditions, suitable for daily use in luggage
storage for airlines or a locker room for a major sporting event.
The reported fluorescent methodology is very sensitive and selective,
allowing for the trapping of triacetone triperoxide in the chemical
sensor to give reliable results at very low concentrations in air
under ambient conditions, by comparing the fluorescence of the material
before and after exposition to TATP traces in air.