IRSSIL detection & identification

What Is an Infra-Red Sampled Selective Luminescence (IRSSIL)?

A handheld IRSSIL detector is a compact, portable analytical instrument designed to detect or identify explosive materials at invisible, trace level. Unlike traditional laboratory mass spectrometers, which are large, stationary, and require controlled environments, handheld IRSSIL devices are engineered for on-site, real-time analysis. They are small enough to be carried in one hand, battery-powered, and ruggedized for use outside laboratory conditions. This technology is exploited in RS DYNAMICS’s EXPLONIX and miniEXPLONIX products.

The innovative IRSSIL technology combines advanced controlled infrared scanning, enabling collection of traces of all non-volatile explosive traces followed by a special analytical process, based on precise control of the sample processing temperatures in addition to processing the time-sequenced week short peaks of created light, that is a base for distinguish between groups of explosives substances. As a main sensing element in our analytical system, we used the true, customer-made single photon sensitive photomultiplier with precise dynamic stabilization of a signal baseline. This setup limits for instance the danger of oversaturation what can be a nightmare for the similar sensing systems.

How Does a Handheld IRSSIL Detector Work?

The operation of EXPLONIX and miniEXPLONIX involves several key components working together:

Thermal Desorption

The device exploits an infra-red heating unit transferring the collected sample into vapors by using heat.

The Sample Processing

The evaporated sample is sucked inside the internal heater where the sample is burnt. If explosive molecules are present in the sample, the burning procedure will produce NOx molecules.

Luminescence

The burnt sample is introduced into cartridge with NOx sensitive liquid called “luminol”. In case of NOx presence, a small amount of light is produced.

Cost and Efficiency

Reducing reliance on centralized laboratories lowers operational costs and speeds up workflows.

Light Measurement

The instrument exploits photomultiplier tube that collects the produced light and converts it into electrical signal.

Signal Processing

The measured electrical signal is conditioned to significantly increase signal-to-noise ratio for a purpose to raise the sensitivity and selectivity

Who Can Use a Handheld IRRSIL detectors?

One of the major advantages of EXPLONIX and miniEXPLONIX are portability and reliability. While traditional spectroscopic techniques require trained scientists, these devices are designed for a wide range of users, including:

With intuitive interfaces and automated interpretation, users often need only minimal training to operate the device effectively, making it suitable for both experts and non-specialists.

Where Can It Be Used?

The EXPLONIX and miniEXPLONIX are specifically designed for field deployment, meaning they can be used in locations where traditional laboratory equipment is impractical or impossible. Typical environments include:

Airports checkpoints
Border Control
Military and defense setting
Urban security checkpoints
VIP security
Remote field sites (mines, forests, disaster zones)

The durability allows them to function in challenging conditions such as dust, vibration, temperature fluctuations, and humidity.

Why Was the Handheld IRSSIL technology Invented?

The invention of EXPLONIX and miniEXPLONIX was driven by several practical needs:

Immediate Decision-Making

Many real-world situations—such as hazardous material identification—require instant answers, not lab turnaround times..

Safety

Handling unknown substances can be dangerous. IRSSIL technology enables non-contact and non-destructive analysis.

Portability and Accessibility

First responders needed laboratory-quality chemical analysis in the field, without transporting samples or setting up complex equipment.

Environmental Monitoring

Cost and Efficiency

Reducing reliance on centralized laboratories lowers operational costs and speeds up workflows.

Technological Advancements

Advances in materials, optical sensors, batteries, and data processing made it possible to miniaturize without sacrificing performance.

Conclusion

The EXPLONIX and miniEXPLONIX represents a significant technological advancement in chemical analysis, bringing selective and sensitive detection and identification capabilities out of the laboratory and into the real world. By combining portability, safety, speed, and accuracy, it enables informed decision-making across security field. Its invention reflects a growing demand for instant, reliable information at the point of need.