nir-vana innovation network

A German R&D institute that has vast experience in laser systems applied in aerospace security and defence researches, develops and evaluates active optical standoff detection technologies for chemical, biological, and explosive (CBE) hazards. Key technologies are light scattering, induced fluorescence, short-pulse Raman-spectroscopy, and IR (infrared) vibrational spectroscopy. The systems can be tailored to diverse areas of application.

Hazardous materials represent a threat to the environment and to individuals, including first responders, security forces, end-users, and operators. Time-consuming and often dangerous sampling of the substances is required for a full evaluation of the nature and extent of the threat.

The enhanced active optical technologies developed by the institute allow for in-process control real-time substance classification. Technologies can be easily adapted to changing requirements (e.g. different types of substances) and are now being transferred to transportable, mobile or hand-held applications. Optical detection is standoff: no contact is required with chemical or biological agents. Extended detection ranges beyond 1 m have already been demonstrated for security applications.

The standoff technology is primarily dedicated but not limited to the protection of first responders, airports, train stations, and critical infrastructures. Further applications are in the growing field of food security and smart agriculture as well as in the field of health protection.

Possible partners for research agreements (in the frame of EU-funded projects, e.g. under Horizon Europe) or bilateral projects are institutes or companies (SME and large companies) working in the fields of civil security, hazard detection, advanced integration, coupling and adjustment units, autonomous operations, ground-based or air-based vehicles, process control and monitoring as well as emergency services and health protection. Joint projects can address combined detection technologies as well as system developments tailored to specific applications or to the needs of end users. The technologies developed by the institute have partly been verified out of the lab or take part in ongoing test campaigns. Technical cooperation with research institutions and SME is most wanted for system integration of the technology to a considerable TRL (technology readiness level). Further cooperation with industrial partners shall aim at the transfer of the institute’s technology to the market e.g. under a licence agreement.

Advantages & innovations

The in-process control, active optical detection technology provides real-time information in CBE hazardous and damage situations by localization and characterization of hazardous materials and it allows for targeted follow-up measures. Optical detection is contactless, i.e. no exposure to chemical or biological agents is required. Extended detection ranges beyond 1 m have already been proven for security applications. The active optical standoff detection systems enable first responders to pre-check unsettled situations from safe distances and provide early information on critical substances in the area of interest. Decisions on PPE (personal protective equipment) or on emergency procedures can be taken more precisely and specifically. Personal stress and the time of exposure is reduced to a minimum. The operation will become safer and more time- and cost-efficient. Contaminated areas can be localized quickly and sampling for forensic laboratory analysis can be directed immediately. The technology is further valid in cultivation and production processes where quality control is required in time, e.g.: Early and specific detection of fungal infections in agriculture allows for fast response by local and therefore minimized use of fungicides. With a high level of sensitivity and specificity, recent policies for safety at work (e.g. REACH) can be addressed in industrial environment. A fast and smooth adaptation to new substances is part of the technique. Compared to passive technologies (like hyperspectral imaging), active technologies are independent from daylight. They can be operated at any time and have been demonstrated to yield higher performances.

Stage of development

Available for demonstration

Partner sought

- Type of partner sought: SME, industry, research organisation, associations, agencies, end user - Specific area of activity of the partner: manufacturer, system integrator, engineering, researcher, task forces, security services - Tasks to be performed by the partner sought: depending on the special project / commission Tasks are the advancement and the customization of the optical detection technologies for the specific fields of applications and the respective operating conditions. Partners shall be consortium partners, consortium leaders, end-users, and associates in research projects (EU, national) for civil security, smart farming, or health protection as well as partners in bilateral projects or externally funded projects on the detection of CBE hazards.