Fido® XT Explosives Detector
Fido® explosives detectors utilize proprietary amplifying fluorescent polymers (AFP) to detect trace levels of explosive materials in parts per quadrillion (ppq). In operation, a sample is introduced into the unit via either direct air sampling or thermal desorption of a swipe. The resulting gas-phase sample flows through a glass capillary whose inner surface is coated with AFP material. An external continuous light source is directed at the capillary to produce fluorescent emission from the AFP. Detection occurs when explosives present in the gas stream bind to the AFP and quench the fluorescent emission. This quenching effect is amplified throughout the polymer via electronic linkages along the conjugated polymer chain; amplifications of between 100 and 1000 times versus monomeric quenching have been reported. The binding of explosives to the AFP is reversible; when analyte is removed from the air flow, the system recovers within about a minute.
Availability: DISCONTINUED
| Manufacturer |
| Teledyne FLIR Detection, Inc. |
| Product Name |
| Fido® XT Explosives Detector |
| Detection Category |
| Chemical; Explosives |
| Detection Principle |
| Molecular Spectroscopy; |
| Detection Method |
| Amplifying Fluorescence Polymers; |
| Application |
| Emergency Response; Screening; Bulk Analysis; Trace Analysis; Forensics; |
| Product Model Number |
| Multiple Based on Selected Options - Not Specified |
| Equipment Type |
| Instrument |
| Product Synopsis |
| Fido® explosives detectors utilize proprietary amplifying fluorescent polymers (AFP) to detect trace levels of explosive materials in parts per quadrillion (ppq). In operation, a sample is introduced into the unit via either direct air sampling or thermal desorption of a swipe. The resulting gas-phase sample flows through a glass capillary whose inner surface is coated with AFP material. An external continuous light source is directed at the capillary to produce fluorescent emission from the AFP. Detection occurs when explosives present in the gas stream bind to the AFP and quench the fluorescent emission. This quenching effect is amplified throughout the polymer via electronic linkages along the conjugated polymer chain; amplifications of between 100 and 1000 times versus monomeric quenching have been reported. The binding of explosives to the AFP is reversible; when analyte is removed from the air flow, the system recovers within about a minute. |
| Availability |
| DISCONTINUED |
| Technology Readiness Level (TRL) |
| 9 |
| Market Entry Date |
| 2005 |
| User Feedback Sources |
| Indifferent/No user feedback |
| Dimensions |
| Controller: 9.8 × 4.8 x 2 in (250 x 122 x 51 mm) Input head: 3.5 × 3.5 × 1.5 in (90 x 90 x 45 mm) Tethered cable: 3 ft. (1 m) |
| Weight |
| <5 Lbs.; 2.4 Lbs. (1.1 kg) |
| Transportability |
| Handheld |
| Ruggedness |
| Extreme Temperatures/Humidity; Not militarized, drop sensitive. |
| Operating Conditions |
| –18 to 60°C (0 to 140°F) |
| Consumables |
| <$1,000/year; Sensing element - Sample collection swipe (optional, but recommended) |
| Suggested Routine Maintenance |
| Simple cleaning, occasional replacement of O-rings, adjustment of mass flow controller |
| Communications Interface |
| USB - Includes MS-Windows-based software for analyzing stored data files, annotating records, and printing results |
| Tested For Explosives |
| Nitro aromatics (e.g., TNT, DNT), Semtex, C4, RDX, PETN, powders, some ANFO mixtures, some improvised materials. Cannot detect peroxides. |
| Sample Introduction |
| Vapor/Gas; Solid |
| Sensitivity/Detection Limits |
| ppq |
| Start Up Time (From Cold Start To Sample Ready) |
| <5 minutes |
| Response Time (Sample Application To Output) |
| Continuous (<30 seconds); 10 seconds |
| Alarm Capability |
| Graphical display and audible response |
| Software Control |
| Software add-on package available for saving sample and file information |
| Training Required |
| <1 day training |
| Training Available |
| On-site training available. Manufacturer provides advanced training at their facility. |
| Manuals Available |
| Yes |
| Warranties |
| 1 year |
| ITAR/EAR Export Regulations |
| Yes; These products are controlled for export under US Department of Commerce (DOC), Export Administration Regulations (EAR). U.S. Government authorization may be required. |
| Approved Vendors |
| Multiple - Contact FLIR POC for current list |
