JRC’s laboratories in Geel, Belgium house a selection of the main detection technologies used in different security fields, mainly in aviation security but also in protection of public spaces, custom and border control, law enforcement and first responders.
The equipment is located in two main laboratories: the Aviation Security Laboratory and the Explosives Trace Detection Laboratory. These two laboratories are complemented by an analytical laboratory dedicated to synthesis of energetic materials and handling of chemicals.
The Aviation Security Laboratory comprises a selection of security screening equipment representative of what is used in EU airports for screening passengers, cabin baggage and hold baggage. This includes x-ray baggage scanners, a millimetre-wave body scanner and bottle scanners.
The Explosives Trace Detection Laboratory is equipped with 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 frontline role in the detection of explosives at passenger checkpoints, and for the screening of staff, supplies, hold baggage and cargo.
In addition, this laboratory also houses a selection of handheld detection equipment, which is used for both explosives and narcotics trace detection outside aviation (public spaces, custom and border control, law enforcement, first responders etc.).
These activities support Member States to implement EU policies by enhancing testing capabilities, promoting best practices and facilitating the testing and verification of threat detection equipment.
A prime example of developments made in JRC’s aviation security laboratories, is the TATP spray currently used by Belgian police and authorities across the EU to train specialist dogs and test ETD equipment at airports.