DETECTION OF TRACE AMOUNTS OF AIRBORNE OR DEPOSITED LOW-MOLECULAR WEIGHT COMPOUNDS

摘要

A system and a method for detection of trace amounts of airborne or deposited low­-molecular weight compound(s), such as narcotics or explosives, comprising an electrically charged collector surface connected to an ionizer ionizing airborne particles with an electrical charge opposite to the charge of the collector surface, optional air-stirring means, extraction means for extraction of collected material from the collector surface, and equipment for chemical and/or biochemical detection of said compound(s) from said extracted collected material, is disclosed. Further, a modified ionizer/collector device wherein the collector is extended from the body of the device and is equipped with a preferably detachable, electrically chargeable collecting surface and wherein optionally the air-ionizing part of the device is also extended from the body of the ionizer/collector device, either together with or apart from, the extended collector arm, is described. The device may be battery-driven and portable, and suitable for use by the customs, airport security and police for the detection of e.g. narcotics or explosives or in mine detection.