Laser-Based Optical Detection of Explosives

This book reviews past, present, and emerging optical laser-based technologies for the detection of explosives. Each chapter is authored by a leading expert on the respective technology, and is structured to offer historical perspective, address current advantages and challenges, and discuss novel research and applications. With the ultimate goal of aiding military and security forces in increasing speed and accuracy of explosive detection and identification, the text covers terahertz, laser-induced breakdown, ultrafast, cavity ringdown, Raman, and reflectance spectroscopy, photodissociation laser-induced fluorescence, hyperspectral imaging, and more.

Laser-Based Optical Detection of Explosives offers a comprehensive review of past, present, and emerging laser-based methods for the detection of a variety of explosives. This book:

• Considers laser propagation safety and explains standard test material preparation for standoff optical-based detection system evaluation
• Explores explosives detection using deep ultraviolet native fluorescence, Raman spectroscopy, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, reflectometry, and hyperspectral imaging
• Examines photodissociation followed by laser-induced fluorescence, photothermal methods, cavity-enhanced absorption spectrometry, and short-pulse laser-based techniques
• Describes the detection and recognition of explosives using terahertz-frequency spectroscopic techniques

Each chapter is authored by a leading expert on the respective technology, and is structured to supply historical perspective, address current advantages and challenges, and discuss novel research and applications. Readers are left with an in-depth understanding and appreciation of each technology’s capabilities and potential for standoff hazard detection.