Systems and methods related to optical nanosensors comprising photoluminescent nanostructures are generally described.

A computer-implemented method for interpreting an electrochemical response, comprises the steps of: (a) providing an electrochemical response that is baseline-corrected; (b) identifying in the electrochemical response one or more peaks that exceed a predetermined height threshold and a predetermined prominence threshold, each identified peak having a peak position; (c) providing a predetermined peak position range for each of a plurality of analytes; and (d) attributing one or more of the analytes to the peaks identified in step b, by, for each peak, associating the peak with an analyte when the peak position falls within the predetermined peak position range for the analyte.

A shaped lens for minimizing differences in time of arrival at the output surface of an explosive assembly. The lens is plano-convex with the convex shape oriented towards the explosive charge. The lens becomes monotonically thicker as the center of the lens is radially approached from the edge, according to a formula accounting for the detonation velocity of the explosve and velocity of the shockwave through the lens. The lens is preferably incorporated into a test fixture using a liquid explosive, such as nitromethane. The test fixture may be assembed on site, at the test location.

The use of volatilization reagents is disclosed for improved detection of inorganic oxidizers such as, but not limited to, chlorates and perchlorates. Detection methods are disclosed whereby a reagent can transfer a proton to the anion (i.e., chlorate, perchlorate, etc.) of an inorganic salt analyte, forming an acid (i.e., chloric acid, perchloric acid) that is easier to detect by a mechanism whereby the acidified reagent is more easily vaporized, and hence, more easily detected. Concurrently, the anion of the acid forms a new salt with the cation released from the salt that was acidified. The reagents can also include acidic salts or cation-donators, more generally. In some embodiments, hydrated reagents or co-reagents that can release water can be employed.

A cost-effective and limited interaction explosive detector for dangerous, illegal, and/or illicit substances such as explosives, flammable or volatile fluids, and/or other appropriate substances is described. The explosive detector may be integrated into various containers or packages, such as cardboard boxes, paper envelopes, metal shipping containers, and/or other containers or packaging. The integrated explosive detector may provide a visual indication when a subject substance is encountered. The integrated explosive detector may include a port or vent that allows for ambient flow of fluids, such as air, between an interior of the container and the outside environment.

The present invention relates to a powdered simulant composition of an explosive compound having an Z.sub.eff, between 6.5 and 7.5 and a and the use thereof.

The invention relates to a method and apparatus for evaluating reaction molecular byproducts of pyrotechnic reactions. A closed calorimetry bomb holds pyrotechnic material, which is detonated by a charge. The calorimetry bomb is vented directly into a gas chromatography machine, where gas phase molecules are separated based on their polarity. The separated molecules are then injected into a mass spectrometer and characterized by their mass fragmentation. The remaining residual solids within the bomb are extracted and injected into a liquid chromatography instrument where they are separated by their polarity. The separated molecules are then injected into a mass spectrometer and characterized by their mass fragmentation pattern. The method provides a complete picture of the reaction pathways and products to aid in regulatory compliance of incorporating energetic materials into real-world applications, particularly those in the family of PFAS containing compositions.

A device for a flash point: determination and/or combustion point determination of a liquid sample which is receivable in a container and for a flame detection is described, comprising: a container reception for receiving the container; an infrared sensor which is arranged to detect light which is generated by a flame in a region around or within the container; an evaluation system which is coupled with the infrared sensor and is configured to evaluate infrared sensor data of the infrared sensor, to indicate a fire or a burn based on the evaluation.

A method and apparatus for classifying and/or identifying materials by means of their spectral response to gamma radiation. Classification is carried out by irradiating multiple different samples with gamma radiation, detecting a spectral response in the backscatter direction, sorting the spectral response into energy bands and selecting a combination of energy bands to define a relationship that best distinguishes between clusters of spectral responses for different material classes. Two or more of the energy bands may overlap.

A method to make metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) in which a first aqueous solution of a transition metal salt is mixed with a second aqueous solution of an imidazole or alkyl-substituted imidazole to yield a product solution containing MOF crystals. The MOF crystals are used to fabricate electrodes for electrochemical detection of nitro-aromatic compounds.