The threat posed by improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in public spaces such as airports, transportation hubs, or logistics warehouses represents an increasing risk to public safety. Many of these devices use TATP (triacetone triperoxide), a highly unstable and volatile homemade explosive. Unlike conventional explosives, TATP lacks nitro groups, which makes it difficult to detect using common methods such as mass spectrometry, traditional chemical sensors, or even trained dogs. This limitation creates a blind spot in current surveillance systems, particularly in environments where large-scale physical inspections are not feasible.
A research group at the University of Burgos (UBU) has developed a portable technology that enables the selective detection of airborne TATP, offering an effective, more affordable, and non-invasive solution to enhance security in public spaces. It uses organic dyes that alter their fluorescence upon contact with TATP or its by-product, hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂).
The system is integrated into an indoor mobile robot that continuously aspirates ambient air and analyzes potential changes in fluorescence using a mini-colorimeter. When traces of the explosive are detected, the system triggers both visual and audible alarms.
This technology enables continuous, contact-free monitoring with high sensitivity, positioning it as a cost-effective and non-intrusive alternative to existing detection technologies
A functional prototype is currently available and undergoing demonstration. It has been tested for up to 6 hours of continuous autonomous operation.
Benefits:
- High sensitivity, with a detection limit as low as 1 mg/m³ of TATP in air.
- Cost-effective alternative to traditional methods such as mass spectrometry or canine detection units.
- Compact and portable, designed to easily navigate through luggage and confined indoor spaces.
- Discreet and non-intrusive design, minimizing public alarm during operation.
- Continuous and remote monitoring without the need for physical contact or proximity to the explosive.
- Autonomous or guided operation, suitable for indoor environments such as warehouses or terminals.
- Highly adaptable, allowing integration into other types of mobile robotic platforms.
The purpose of this contact is to gather commercial feedback on the technology in order to better align its development with market needs. Additionally, we aim to explore potential collaborations that could lead to the commercial exploitation of the invention in the near future. The form, terms, and conditions of such a collaboration can be openly discussed if technology is of interest.
Institution: Universidad de Burgos
Financing: Convocatoria Itinerario para la Transferencia de Resultados (ITR) 2024–2025
Protection Status: Three patent applications filed.
Contacto: Ana Carlota de la Cruz Abad / a.cruz@viromii.com