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Home News Why Liquid Explosive Detectors and Scann...

Advancing Airport and Public Space Security: The Role of Liquid Explosive Detectors and Scanners in Modern Security Inspection Systems


In an era of growing global threats, ensuring the safety of airports, train stations, ports, and other public spaces has become more challenging than ever. Security systems have evolved dramatically over the last few decades, with technology playing an increasingly critical role in safeguarding these high-traffic areas from potential attacks. Among the various threats to aviation and public transport, the detection of liquid explosives remains one of the most significant challenges.

In the early 2000s, the discovery of liquid explosives—capable of being carried on an airplane in a liquid form—changed the landscape of security. In response, advanced security inspection systems were developed, such as liquid explosive detectors and liquid scanners, designed to identify suspicious substances in liquids. These technologies have become critical in screening passengers and luggage to prevent the smuggling of explosives. But what exactly are these systems, and how do they work to keep us safe?


This article explores the importance of liquid explosive detection technologies, the mechanisms behind liquid scanners, and their integration into security frameworks, particularly within airports and other public spaces. By examining the evolution, functioning, and future of liquid explosive detectors and scanners, we will understand how these systems play a pivotal role in modern-day security protocols.

1. Evolution of Security Inspection Systems: From Metal Detectors to Liquid Explosive Detection

The concept of security screening has existed for decades, dating back to the mid-20th century when early airport security measures focused on weapons detection, primarily metal objects. In the early stages, X-ray machines, metal detectors, and manual bag checks were the standard tools. However, these methods were limited in their ability to detect modern, complex threats—especially those involving liquids, which posed a challenge to security personnel worldwide.

The 9/11 terrorist attacks, followed by the 2006 transatlantic bombing plot (involving liquid explosives), highlighted the vulnerabilities in traditional security systems. It became clear that the detection of liquid explosives, which could be easily concealed in everyday items like shampoo bottles, was a significant gap in airport security protocols.

The subsequent years saw a dramatic shift in security technologies, with the development of liquid explosive detectors and liquid scanners designed to detect such hidden threats in real time. These systems have evolved alongside advancements in spectrometry, X-ray imaging, and AI-driven detection algorithms.

Technological Advancements in Liquid Detection

To effectively address the growing risk posed by liquid explosives, technology had to evolve. X-ray machines were modified to accommodate better analysis of liquids. Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS) was adapted to allow portable devices capable of sniffing out trace amounts of explosive chemicals. Raman spectroscopy and mass spectrometry became more sophisticated, allowing for the identification of chemicals present in liquids that might otherwise go undetected.

These systems are now common in airport terminals, but their development was not without challenges. Overcoming issues related to false positives, screening throughput, and passenger privacy was essential for achieving widespread adoption.

2. The Science Behind Liquid Explosives and Their Detection

Liquid explosives are highly dangerous yet difficult to detect. Unlike solid explosives that can be easily identified through traditional scanning methods, liquids present a complex challenge because they can be carried in containers that look perfectly harmless—such as beverages, shampoos, or perfumes.

Understanding Liquid Explosives

Liquid explosives, such as Triacetone Triperoxide (TATP), hydrogen peroxide-based compounds, and nitroglycerin, are particularly concerning because they can be easily made with readily available chemicals. These substances are highly volatile and can be detonated using a small spark or heat source. Because liquid explosives are often stored in clear bottles or containers, they can bypass traditional solid-object detection systems.

The threat is compounded by the fact that liquids can often blend in with other benign liquids. A bottle of water, for example, may look indistinguishable from a dangerous substance unless proper analysis is done.


3. How Liquid Explosive Detectors and Scanners Work

Liquid explosive detectors are designed to provide fast and accurate results without causing disruption to passengers. They operate on a variety of principles, each aimed at rapidly analyzing liquids without compromising security or privacy.

Handheld Liquid Explosive Detectors

Handheld liquid explosive detectors are compact, portable devices designed for rapid on-site analysis. Security personnel can use these tools to scan liquids carried by passengers in bags, bottles, or other containers. These devices use a combination of Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS) and Raman spectroscopy and Ultra-Wideband Pulse Microwave Reflection Method (UWB) to determine the presence of dangerous substances in a matter of seconds.

One of the major advantages of handheld detectors is their ability to perform a non-invasive analysis of liquids without opening containers, minimizing both time and inconvenience for passengers.

4. Impact of Liquid Explosive Detectors on Airport and Public Space Security

Regulatory Impact

In the aftermath of the 2006 liquid bomb plot, airport security authorities around the world scrambled to establish liquid restrictions for passengers. Initially, these restrictions limited passengers to carrying no more than 100ml of liquid in containers through security, and all liquids had to be placed in clear, resealable plastic bags.

However, the development of more advanced liquid scanners allowed for a more flexible approach. Today, many airports are equipped with liquid scanners capable of screening full-sized bottles and liquids in larger quantities, thus easing the burden on passengers and improving overall throughput.

Balancing Efficiency with Security

The challenge for security agencies is to balance efficiency with effectiveness. Liquid scanners must quickly process large numbers of passengers and their luggage without sacrificing detection accuracy. With increased throughput and faster scanning systems, modern liquid explosive detectors help strike this balance. Systems are now integrated into automated security lanes, allowing for seamless integration with existing airport screening processes.


Securina SA1000 desktop liquid explosive detector and SA1500 handheld liquid explosive detection systems adopt ultra-wideband pulse microwave reflection method and thermal conductivity method, which is suitable for inspection of various common packaging liquids such as glass, plastic, metal, ceramic, etc., without opening the liquid packaging. It automatically detects flammable, explosive and corrosive hazardous liquids with accurate and efficient recognition rate. Its purpose is to prevent items containing dangerous liquids (which can cause burning or explosive liquids) from entering safe areas, and can be widely used in safety inspection places such as stations, subways, government agencies, stadiums and other crowded or important activities.

Ultra-Wideband Pulse Microwave Reflection Method for Liquid Explosive Detection

As security threats continue to evolve, so too does the technology designed to counter them. One of the most promising advancements in the detection of liquid explosives is the use of the Ultra-Wideband Pulse Microwave Reflection Method (UWB). This cutting-edge technology leverages microwave signals to analyze the properties of materials, including liquids, and distinguish between harmless substances and dangerous explosives.

The Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Pulse Microwave Reflection Method is an innovative detection approach that is particularly effective in screening liquids for explosives. It is a non-invasive, highly accurate, and relatively fast method for identifying materials based on their reflection characteristics when subjected to microwave pulses.

How Ultra-Wideband Pulse Microwave Reflection Works

The UWB method operates on the principle that materials, including liquids, interact with microwave signals in different ways depending on their composition, density, and other physical properties. Here’s a breakdown of how the process works:

  1. Emission of Ultra-Wideband Pulse: A UWB system emits a pulse of microwave energy over a broad range of frequencies. These microwaves travel through materials and are reflected back to the sensor.
  2. Reflection and Signal Analysis: When the microwaves interact with a liquid or solid object, the waves are either absorbed, transmitted, or reflected back depending on the properties of the material. Different substances—such as water, oil, or liquid explosives—will have unique reflection patterns. The UWB system measures the time it takes for the microwave signal to return and analyzes its frequency response.
  3. Data Processing and Identification: The reflected signals are then processed using advanced algorithms that analyze the response of the material to the microwaves. By comparing the results against a database of known substances, the system can identify whether the material in question is a harmless liquid (such as water or perfume) or a potentially hazardous substance like a liquid explosive.
  4. Precise Detection: The high frequency and wide bandwidth of the microwaves allow for extremely precise measurement of material properties, making this method highly accurate in distinguishing between different liquids. Moreover, the reflection method provides detailed information about the internal structure of the material, such as density, conductivity, and dielectric properties, which are useful for detecting the presence of explosives.

Advantages of the Ultra-Wideband Pulse Microwave Reflection Method

  1. Non-Invasive and Safe: Unlike some other detection methods, such as mass spectrometry or X-ray scanning, the UWB pulse microwave reflection method is completely non-invasive. It does not require the liquid to be physically altered, opened, or sampled, thus preserving both the integrity of the item being tested and the privacy of the passenger.
  2. Highly Accurate and Fast: The UWB method can provide results in real time, making it particularly useful for high-throughput security environments like airports and transit hubs. The ultra-wide bandwidth allows for detailed reflection analysis, which improves the accuracy of identifying potentially dangerous substances in liquids.
  3. No Need for Direct Contact: Unlike traditional methods that might require physical sampling or a direct interaction with the substance being tested, UWB systems can detect explosives through containers or packaging. This feature is particularly useful when analyzing liquids in sealed bottles or packages, such as those carried by passengers through airport security.
  4. Versatility: UWB systems can detect a broad range of liquid explosives, including TATP, hydrogen peroxide-based explosives, nitroglycerin, and other liquid compounds that can pose a threat to public safety. The method’s versatility allows for effective detection across various materials, ranging from transparent liquids to opaque substances.
  5. Real-Time Detection: One of the major advantages of using UWB pulse microwave reflection for liquid explosive detection is its ability to provide real-time data. When integrated with screening systems, the technology can process data almost instantaneously, allowing for quick and efficient identification of potentially dangerous liquids without delaying passengers or creating bottlenecks at security checkpoints.

Applications of UWB Pulse Microwave Reflection in Security Systems

  1. Airport Security: UWB pulse microwave reflection technology is increasingly being used in liquid explosive detection systems at airports, particularly for screening carry-on luggage and other liquid-filled containers. As passenger volumes rise and security standards tighten, the demand for efficient and non-invasive liquid screening solutions has grown, and UWB-based systems provide a practical answer.
  2. Public Transit Hubs: Beyond airports, UWB technology can be deployed in other high-traffic areas, such as train stations, bus terminals, and subways, where large numbers of passengers and goods pass through security checkpoints every day. The ability to quickly analyze liquids in a non-intrusive manner makes it ideal for locations where passengers need to move quickly through security.
  3. Portable Detection Devices: One of the most exciting prospects of the UWB pulse microwave reflection method is the potential for portable devices capable of quickly scanning liquids for explosives. These hand-held scanners could be used by security personnel at events, concerts, and sports venues, providing an additional layer of safety in public spaces.

Securina Detection System Com., LTD is a trusted manufacturer, supplier of liquid explosive detection systems based in China, providing cutting-edge security solutions that help safeguard public spaces, airports, transportation hubs, and more. With years of expertise and innovation in the field of security technology, we specialize in developing high-performance liquid explosive detectors and advanced scanning systems that deliver unparalleled accuracy and efficiency.

Our mission is to enhance global security by providing non-invasive, highly sensitive, and real-time detection of dangerous liquid explosives. We understand the growing threat of liquid-based explosives in aviation, railways, and other critical infrastructures, and our products are designed to meet the highest standards of safety and compliance, ensuring that they meet regulatory requirements while optimizing operational efficiency. Our systems are built for both fixed installations and portable applications, allowing for seamless integration in high-traffic environments without compromising on detection speed or accuracy.

Whether you are looking to enhance airport security, streamline cargo screening, or improve safety at public events, our liquid explosive detection systems are engineered to provide peace of mind in any environment.

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