Smiths Detection launches X-ray Diffraction technology to combat illegal narcotics and contraband trafficking  

Pioneering solution will enhance and automate detection of narcotics

Smiths Detection, a global leader in threat detection and security screening technologies, and a business of Smiths Group plc, today announces the launch of its groundbreaking X-ray Diffraction (XRD) technology scanner, the SDX 10060 XDi.

Set for roll-out across many of the world’s busiest international airports, express forwarding facilities and customs control points Smiths Detection’s newest scanner is an innovative solution which is poised to play a central role in the continued fast-moving war against illicit narcotics and wider contraband. Smiths Detection has been developing and testing this pioneering technology and it is now available globally for market use.

Inconsistencies in the physical characteristics of drugs when they are cut with other substances make narcotics detection very complex. XRD offers highly accurate identification of contraband through screening of the items’ molecular structure. This will significantly improve detection rates and reduce manual inspection of hold baggage at customs control points, at arrival airports and in wider industries such as freight travel, identifying narcotics without the need for opening parcels or mail. This will enable more efficient airports, ports and postal facilities whilst providing a powerful tool in the war against drugs.

As outlined by the United Nation’s latest World Drug Report, global narcotic use is growing – in no small part due to the developing tactics deployed by traffickers. “Fast parcels” for instance, is an approach whereby traffickers are disguising illicit goods as benign items. This is a complicating factor for detection technologies.

The SDX 10060 XDi will use Artificial Intelligence to further optimise the XRD detection capabilities. For example, the system will be trained to find heroin and then AI can be introduced to artificially create variations of the drug.

Due to its exceptional sensitivity, the XDi is also ideally suited to increase the level of security and efficiency in outbound hold luggage screening even further through its ability to identify threats including improvised explosive devices.

Jerome de Chassey, President of Smiths Detection, commented: “We are immensely excited to announce the launch of our X-ray diffraction scanner, a groundbreaking new technology that represents the culmination of years of continued commitment to R&D and innovation – and that reflects our purpose to make the world a safer place.

"The war on illegal contraband, not least the transportation of illicit narcotics, is an ever-evolving threat. X-ray Diffraction, alongside CT scanners and AI, has a key role to play in this, as part of the overarching war on drugs, and we are proud to be supporting this fight.”

See how XRD will enhance security here: https://youtu.be/CkoCpsrz97I

About Smiths Detection: 

Smiths Detection is a global leader in threat detection and screening technologies for aviation, ports and borders, urban security and defence. With more than 70 years of field-tested experience, Smiths Detection deliver the solutions needed to protect society from the threat and illegal passage of explosives, prohibited weapons, contraband, toxic chemicals, biological agents, and narcotics – helping make the world a safer place. Smiths Detection is a division of Smiths Group, a leading Industrial Technology company headquartered in London.

For more information visit http://www.smithsdetection.com/diffraction  

About the SDX 10060 XDi:

The Smiths Detection SDX 10060 XDi leverages cutting-edge X-ray Diffraction (XRD) technology to offer unparalleled material discrimination and substance identification capabilities. By generating a unique 'diffraction fingerprint', it can accurately distinguish between substances with similar densities, making it exceptionally effective for identifying homemade explosives and narcotics in various forms. This advanced detection system is especially beneficial for high-volume, high-speed applications such as baggage screening at airports and parcel processing, where it enhances security and operational efficiency.

Discover how the SDX 10060 XDI can elevate your security screening operations here: https://www.smithsdetection.com/products/sdx-10060-xdi/