Air travellers could be tested for drugs and explosives without even
realising it, thanks to a chemical detection portal developed by Barringer
Technologies in New Jersey. Each passenger walks through a gateway similar to
the familiar metal detector. Gentle airflows remove particles from the person’s
body and carry them into the machine. The particles can then be analysed
automatically for substances such as narcotics and explosives. The portal, which
is designed for use in airports, prisons and military installations, will be on
the market early next year.
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