Chemical Weapons Identification Systems

• Advanced chemical weapons identification systems using neutron-based gamma spectroscopy (PINS technology)
• Enables non-contact, non-destructive chemical analysis of sealed or hazardous containers
• Detects chemical composition inside thick metal containers, munitions, and sealed vessels
• Provides on-site, real-time identification of chemical warfare agents and hazardous materials
• Eliminates the need for sample extraction, container opening, or laboratory transport
• Portable and rugged systems designed for field deployment and mission-critical operations
• Uses HPGe high-resolution detectors for precise chemical identification
• No liquid nitrogen required (mechanically cooled systems) for easier logistics
• Widely used by military, homeland security, and emergency response teams worldwide
• Proven technology developed in collaboration with U.S. Department of Defense and Idaho National Laboratory

Chemical Weapons Identification Systems from ORTEC are advanced, field-deployable solutions designed for safe, non-destructive identification of hazardous chemicals, explosives, and chemical warfare agents.

These systems are based on Portable Isotopic Neutron Spectroscopy (PINS) technology, which uses neutron interrogation combined with gamma-ray spectroscopy to determine the elemental composition of unknown substances—without opening or disturbing the container.

This capability is critical in high-risk scenarios where direct sampling could expose personnel to dangerous materials.

How It Works

The system emits neutrons into a target object (e.g., a sealed munition or container). These neutrons interact with the material inside, causing atomic nuclei to emit characteristic gamma rays.

Each chemical element produces a unique gamma-ray signature, allowing the system to:

• Identify elemental composition
• Determine chemical compounds
• Classify hazardous materials (e.g., chemical warfare agents, explosives, benign substances)

System Variants
1. PINS (Portable Isotopic Neutron Spectroscopy) Systems
Designed for heavy-duty field operations and military use
Includes neutron generator + HPGe detector + analysis software
Capable of identifying chemicals inside munitions, tanks, and sealed containers
Fully portable with ruggedized transport cases
2. GRACE (Gamma Ray Analysis of Chemical Elements)
Man-portable backpack system for rapid deployment
Lightweight, battery-powered operation
Real-time chemical identification with automatic analysis
Ideal for mobile inspection and tactical missions

Both systems eliminate the need for:
❌ Opening containers
❌ Physical sampling
❌ Transport to laboratory

➡️ Result: Maximum safety + faster decision-making in the field

Core Technology
Neutron interrogation (D-D neutron generator)
Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA)
High-resolution HPGe gamma spectroscopy

Detection Capabilities
Chemical warfare agents (e.g., nerve agents, blister agents)
Explosives and hazardous compounds
Industrial chemicals and unknown substances

Measurement Features
Non-destructive analysis (NDA)
No contact with hazardous material
Real-time chemical identification
Automatic analysis and reporting

System Components
Neutron generator (compact, portable)
HPGe gamma-ray spectrometer (mechanically cooled)
Multichannel analyzer (MCA)
Control laptop/tablet with analysis software
Shielding and measurement stand

Mobility & Deployment
Portable (backpack or wheeled cases)
Battery-powered operation (up to ~12 hours depending on system)
Rapid setup (<15 minutes typical for trained users)

Safety & Operation
Remote operation capability (safe distance from hazard)
No liquid nitrogen required
Reduced operator exposure to hazardous materials

• Chemical weapons identification (CW detection)
• Military and defense operations
• Explosive ordnance disposal (EOD)
• Homeland security and border protection
• Hazardous materials (HAZMAT) response
• Suspicious package inspection
• Industrial chemical verification
• Environmental and legacy munitions analysis