Implant Science explores teaming up with RAE's senor networks

Published 11 January 2007

Companies will discuss technology-sharing possibilities; RAE’s AreaRAE system looks to expand into the explosives detection business; ISC’s device identifies TNT, black powder, ammonium nitrate, and more

Wakefield, Massachusetts-based Implant Science Corporation (ISC), best known to us as the developer of the QS-H150 portable explosives trace detector (the company also makes medical devices), has found a novel way to expand said detector’s capabilities. In an agreement announced this week, the company has agreed to explore ways of deploying the QS-H150 into RAE Systems’s AreaRAE wireless sensor networks. The idea is to offer homeland security customers — particularly those involved in protecting public venues — with non-invasive explosives detection capabilities.

For ISC, the deal means an enhanced marketing opportunity. For RAE, the deal offers the company access to explosives detection capabilities it itself has not been able to manage. (Readers will recall our report from last October in which we noted that the AreaRAE system had been purchased by the National Guard to outfit fifty-five civil support teams.) So far, the AreaRAE has focused mainly on chemical and nuclear detection, not conventional explosives. “This partnership with Implant Sciences expands RAE Systems’ open wireless network strategy,” said RAE’s Robert Chen. “The QS-H150 is capable of detecting trace amounts of most commercial and military explosives, including RDX, PETN, HMX, TNT, black powder, and ammonium nitrate at nanogram level concentrations in real time.”

-read more in this company news release