Abstract
To detect hidden explosives, we have developed an explosives trace detector based on atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mass spectrometry (APCI-MS). In our APCI ion source, the direction of the sample gas flow introduced into the ion source is opposite to that of the ion flow produced by the ion source. This novel ion source has several advantages: for example, high ionization efficiency for nitro-compounds, and a long lifetime without maintenance. Our explosives trace detector model DS-110E has received certification from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in 1995.
