Smiths Detection displays new explosives detection technology

31 October 2006 - SMITHS Detection, part of the global technology business Smiths Group, today displays a demonstration system that is undergoing trials with relevant authorities.

The Smiths HI-SCAN 6040 aTiX is an x-ray inspection system that automatically detects explosives in hand baggage. It will also alert security officers to the presence of liquids in a bag.

aTiX spots the presence of all liquids but does not identify them.

It automatically highlights potential threats with a red box on a display screen. This alerts the operator to take a closer look. He or she then has the option to use a second technology to identify the suspicious liquid and determine whether it is potentially dangerous.

Suspect liquids can be identified with a hand-held analyser, such as the Smiths RespondeR RCI. Based on Raman spectroscopy, this is a highly accurate device for the analysis of unidentified chemical substances including unknown liquids, powders and solids.

Stephen Phipson, Group Managing Director of Smiths Detection, said: “If the use of these two systems together is successful in these trials, it will provide a technique to detect liquid explosives.”

*HI-SCAN and aTiX are trade marks of Smiths Group of companies


Smiths Group
Smiths is a global technology business, listed on the London Stock Exchange. Smiths Group is a world leader in the practical application of advanced technologies. Our products and services make the world safer, healthier and more productive. Smiths Group has four divisions: Aerospace, Detection, Medical and Specialty. It employs 32,000 people and has over 250 major facilities in 50 countries.


About Smiths Detection
Smiths Detection is part of the global technology business Smiths Group. It offers advanced integrated security solutions for customers in civil and military markets worldwide and is a leading technology developer and manufacturer of sensors that detect and identify explosives, chemical and biological agents, weapons, and contraband. Its advanced technology security solutions also include Smiths Heimann x-ray imaging systems, millimeter-wave technology and a specialist software supply business for the management of large sensor and video surveillance networks. Separate business units focus on related products for the life sciences, and food manufacturing industries. 


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