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Chemical Weapons Identification Systems

Non-Destructive Neutron-Based Chemical Analysis Solutions (PINS & GRACE)

 

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Key Highlights

  • 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

Description

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

Specifications

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

Application

  • 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

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