Screening Envelopes and Parcels for Illicit Materials with Agilent Resolve - a Handheld SORS System

Significance of the Topic

The rapid and noninvasive detection of illicit or hazardous substances concealed within mail and parcels is critical for border security, law enforcement, and public safety. A handheld solution capable of identifying a wide range of chemicals through packaging materials can streamline screening workflows, preserve sender privacy, and reduce exposure risks for operators.

Objectives and Study Overview

This study evaluates the performance of the Agilent Resolve handheld SORS system for through-barrier identification of narcotics, pharmaceuticals, and benign chemicals hidden behind typical parcel packaging. Tests were conducted using layered combinations of padded envelopes and opaque plastic containers to simulate real-world mail screening scenarios.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The Agilent Resolve system employs spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS) to collect Raman spectra from the contents of sealed parcels without opening them.

• Measurement modes:
  
  • Through-barrier (for thick, colored, opaque packaging)
  • Line-of-sight surface scan (for opened packages)
  • Glass vial holder mode
• Automatic scan time adjustment based on signal strength (typical measurement ~1 minute)
• Database matching with priority tagging to highlight specific targets

Main Results and Discussion

Three representative samples—acetaminophen powder in a yellow padded envelope, aspirin tablets in a white envelope plus yellow HDPE tub, and benzocaine powder in a plastic pot—were each correctly identified despite multiple layers of packaging.

Key findings:

• All three samples yielded clear Raman signatures through combined envelope and plastic barriers.
• Matching was achieved in under one minute per sample.
• Priority tagging in the library improved target discrimination and speed of identification.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The Resolve handheld SORS system offers several advantages:

• Nonintrusive screening preserves package integrity and sender privacy.
• Rapid results enable high-throughput screening at mail centers, airports, and security checkpoints.
• Reduced need for protective equipment and chemical handling facilities.
• Adaptability to a broad range of substances, including narcotics, explosives, and toxic chemicals.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advancements in handheld Raman and SORS technologies are expected to expand spectral libraries, improve sensitivity for trace detection, and integrate AI-driven data analysis for automated threat recognition. Potential developments include:

• Miniaturized, multi-modal sensors combining Raman, IR, and XRF capabilities.
• Cloud-based spectral databases for real-time collaborative screening.
• Enhanced algorithms for quantitative analysis of mixture compositions.

Conclusion

The Agilent Resolve handheld SORS system demonstrates reliable, rapid identification of concealed chemicals through common parcel packaging. Its noninvasive approach and ease of use position it as a valuable tool for security screening, forensic investigation, and industrial quality control.

References

Application Note 5991-8870EN, Agilent Technologies, Inc., March 2018.