Installed in containers, devices can detect, analyze odors linked to explosives
    A company that develops explosive-detection equipment for the military is expanding into the cargo world with technology that can sniff out bombs.
    "We refer to our FAST products as 'canine in a can' to help people understand the concept," said Craig Johnson, CEO of Field Forensics, Largo, Fla.
    FAST stands for Forensic Aroma Sensing Technology that can identify and analyze odors to detect explosives concealed in packages, much as a police dog would.
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    In fact, the technology is based on K-9 research at Florida International University's Forensic Science Lab that emulated how a dog's nose and brain identify odors.
    FAST detection cartridges analyze odor signatures rather than relying on detection of explosive particles that may not escape well wrapped packages.
    FAST cartridges can be deployed inside containers in static mode to absorb and "memorize" any aromas within the box for rapid analysis at a checkpoint.
    The same cartridges can be used in dynamic mode to sample and analyze odors to detect explosives in a shipping container during transit, the company said.
    The technology is meant to supplement existing security measures, Johnson said.
    "Having one level of screening is not enough. The recent experience with shipments from Yemen illustrates the importance of having multiple systems in place."

Source: JOC