Apparatus and Method for Detecting Triacetone Triperoxide

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a device and method for rapidly and reliably detecting trace amounts of triacetone triperoxide (TATP), a highly sensitive and easily synthesized explosive often associated with terrorism. The invention uses a sensor array consisting of at least three high-frequency quartz crystal microbalance (HFF-QCM) sensors, each coated with a different chemical layer: a cyclodextrin derivative, a stable dendrimer, and a cholic acid derivative. The specific combination of these coatings allows the device to selectively and sensitively detect TATP vapors in real-time, without the need for pre-enrichment or liquid samples.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Airport and transportation security screening to detect trace explosives on passengers or luggage.
• Border control and customs for real-time cargo inspection for explosive materials.
• Public building and event security, such as stadiums or concert venues, to monitor for explosive threats.
• Mail or parcel scanning systems to detect hidden TATP-containing devices.
• Police, military, or bomb squad teams conducting field investigations or checkpoint operations.
• Industrial or chemical supply chain monitoring to prevent misuse of TATP precursor chemicals.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables real-time and continuous online detection of TATP, with a high sensitivity of less than 3 ppm in air.
• Selectivity: The combination of sensor coatings and analytical routines minimizes false positives from similar chemicals.
• No need for sample pre-enrichment or complex processing, allowing faster and simpler operation.
• Compact and low-cost design, allowing easy integration into existing detection systems or use as portable units.
• Rapid response time (signal detected within seconds) enhances real-world usability.
• Scalability: System can be expanded with more sensors for increased robustness or new threats.

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Patent Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method for fast and reliable online detection of triacetone triperoxide (TATP), with at least three differently coated HFF quartz crystal oscillator sensors (29).