Product Showcase
Firstdefender For Rapid, Hand-held Chemical Identification At Cbrne, Forensic And Hazmat Events
Product/Service Name
FirstDefender Hand-Held Chemical Identification system for First Responders
Function/ApplicationsFirstDefender is a light-weight, rugged, hand-held chemical identification system that brings the benefits of Raman spectroscopy to security personnel on the streets. FirstDefender chemical identification system is ideal for emergency situations demanding a rapid assessment of potentially hazardous materials including explosives, narcotics, toxic industrial chemicals (TICs), white powders and chemical warfare agents (CWAs). Results from the chemical identification system are available instantly, even when the material in question is diluted in water or mixed with benign substances.
Raman spectroscopy isn’t a new technology; in fact, it’s an established laboratory technique recognised as the de facto standard for chemical identification. Until recently, units utilising Raman technology have been very large and very expensive, impractical for field-based applications.
Driven by the requirements of the CBRNE, Forensic and HAZMAT community, FirstDefender chemical identification system was designed by Ahura Scientific to meet the rigors of field use. Weighing less than 2kg, it meets military specifications for ruggedness, including shock and drop testing as well as operation in full outdoor temperature ranges and water immersion.
Differentiating FeaturesFirstDefender chemical identification system benefits include:
• Identification of liquids, solids and mixtures, even through sealed containers.
• Immediate results. Analysis results are delivered on the instrument screen, typically in less than 20 seconds. Results can also be accessed at a later time for further analysis and reporting.
• Chemical signatures are unique. The FirstDefender library holds thousands of unique substance signatures, and can be expanded with end-user added substances as well as library upgrades.
• Samples remain untouched. Using a point-and-shoot method of operation, identification of chemicals is non-contact, non-destructive and requires no preparation.
Sophisticated Software Algorithms
Portability and ruggedness aren’t the only areas of development required to make a successful field deployable system. Leaps in computer processing and mathematical algorithms enable instantaneous and accurate results across thousands of materials. FirstDefender’s on-board database helps assess situational risks in seconds, rather than the hours or even days required for lab results.
Hundreds of military and civilian teams around the world have already embraced FirstDefender for fast, accurate chemical identification. Applications include identification of unknown white powders, explosive materials, hazardous material spills, clandestine drug labs and illegally dumped waste. Based on Ahura’s patented optical technology and mixture analysis software, FirstDefender offers superior performance, accuracy and durability.
Further information is available from Warsash Scientific.