Metrohm TacticID-N Plus handheld Raman spectrometer

Significance of the Topic

The rapid and accurate identification of illicit substances in the field is critical for law enforcement, customs and border protection to ensure public safety and maintain the integrity of evidence. Handheld Raman spectroscopy devices, such as the TacticID®-N Plus, enable non-destructive, non-contact analysis of narcotics, pharmaceuticals, cutting agents and precursors through opaque and transparent packaging. This capability minimizes sample handling risks and preserves the chain of custody.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application note presents the design, capabilities and performance attributes of the TacticID®-N Plus handheld analyzer. The goals are to describe its analytical workflow, library resources, connectivity features and sampling accessories, demonstrating how the instrument supports rapid decision-making in operational environments.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The TacticID®-N Plus employs 785 nm excitation Raman spectroscopy at up to 300 mW laser output power, adjustable in 1% increments. The spectral range covers 176 cm⁻¹ to 2900 cm⁻¹, enabling detection of characteristic vibrational bands of narcotics and related chemicals.

• On-board Resources: Includes a database of over 1 000 substances (narcotics, pharmaceuticals, cutting agents, precursors) with periodic software and library updates.
• Sampling Accessories: TacPac™ SERS adaptor for enhanced detection of low-dose opioids, point-and-shoot and liquid vial holders, optional right-angle adaptor for rapid throughput and polystyrene validation cap.
• Data Management: USB, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for result export (.txt, .csv, .spc, .pdf) and remote library updates.
• User Interface: High-resolution touchscreen with quick notes entry, onboard camera for scene documentation, and color-coded threat level display with GHS and NFPA704 safety information.

Main Results and Discussion

Field evaluations demonstrate that the TacticID®-N Plus reliably identifies pure and mixed samples, providing component-level threat assessment without sample compromise. Indirect contact analysis through packaging materials reduces operator exposure. The built-in SERS capability expands sensitivity for trace-level narcotics. Connectivity features streamline data reporting and ensure real-time access to the latest threat libraries.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Preservation of Evidence Integrity: Non-destructive, through-container analysis maintains sample and chain of custody.
• Operational Efficiency: Rapid, user-friendly workflow with touchscreen prompts and immediate visual alerts supports quick decision-making.
• Safety Enhancement: Color-coded threat levels and safety data reduce operator risk.
• Versatility: Adaptors and broad library coverage address diverse scenarios in law enforcement and border control.

Future Trends and Applications

Advances in handheld Raman spectroscopy are expected to focus on expanding spectral libraries for emerging synthetic drugs, integrating AI-driven pattern recognition for mixed sample deconvolution and enhancing connectivity for cloud-based data sharing. Further miniaturization and battery improvements will extend operational endurance in remote settings.

Conclusion

The TacticID®-N Plus provides a comprehensive, field-deployable solution for non-contact forensic identification of narcotics and related compounds. Its combination of Raman and SERS methodologies, extensive substance libraries and robust data handling features delivers actionable intelligence with minimal sample interaction, reinforcing its value in law enforcement and border protection workflows.

References

No external references were provided in the original document.