Device quickly tests for liquid bombs

[n2doc]

Device quickly tests for liquid bombs
Thwarted plot spotlights research at lab in Richland

By TOM PAULSON
P-I REPORTER

Scientists and engineers at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in Richland have created a device that they say could be used to rapidly and accurately identify any suspicious liquids carried onboard by airplane passengers.

The device, which uses non-invasive ultrasound, can even tell the difference between Coke and Diet Coke.



Scientists at a lab in Richland have spent two years on a device that uses ultrasonic waves to quickly identify dangerous liquids.
Despite the fact that the research was done at a national lab, the device's existence appears to have come as news to many officials at the Department of Homeland Security and the Transportation Security Administration.

Ever since British authorities announced they had thwarted a terrorist plot to use disguised liquid explosives on airplanes, spokespeople for the federal agencies repeatedly have said there is no "operationally viable" or "feasible" technological way today to rapidly and routinely screen for liquid explosives at airports.

Aaron Diaz, a physicist at the Richland lab, respectfully disagrees.

"We're making these measurements in about three to four seconds, but I think we could get it down to one or two," said Diaz, who led the lab's effort to develop its patent pending HAZAID, or Hazardous Material Acoustic Inspection Device.

more:
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/attack/281761_liquidexplode18.html

[thecrow]

1. And in five years or so the TSA will maybe get this....

I imagine it's too costly to implement it just to screen the ordinary travellers in airports.... beside B*ush just cut funding for Homeland Security recently.

Anyway, "important" travellers all fly on private jets. Maybe they will be able to implement this just for the rich.

[damntexdem]

2. Why tell the difference between Coke and Diet Coke?

They're both dangerous liquids. ;-)