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Explosives Trace Detection Laboratory

The JRC’s laboratories in Geel, Belgium encompass a selection of the main detection technologies used in different security fields, mainly in aviation.

Explosives Trace Detection

The JRC’s laboratories in Geel, Belgium encompass a selection of the main detection technologies used in different security fields, mainly in aviation, but also in protection of public spaces, custom and border control, and law enforcement and first responders.

The selected equipment is located in two laboratories, the Aviation Security Laboratory and the Explosives Trace Detection Laboratory. The work of these two laboratories is complemented by another analytical laboratory performing tasks on synthesis of energetic materials and handling of chemicals.

These activities support Member States to implement EU policies by enhancing testing capabilities, promoting best practices and facilitating the testing and verification of security-threat detection equipment.

The Explosives Trace Detection Laboratory consists of a selection of Explosive trace detection (ETD) equipment currently used in EU airports. This equipment has become a key technology in civil aviation security screening processes in Europe, playing a front-line role in the detection of explosives at passenger checkpoints, and for the screening of staff, supplies, hold baggage and cargo.

Moreover, in this laboratory, there is also a selection of handheld detection equipment, which is used for both explosives and narcotics trace detection in other fields than aviation by security officers, first responder, law enforcement and custom officers.