Project Summary

The BAG-VANER project set out to demonstrate the feasibility of a non-invasive vapour alarm
resolution system for cabin baggage screening. The work addressed a key limitation of
conventional Explosive Trace Detectors (ETDs), which rely on swabbing and bag opening.
Instead, BAG-VANER explored how vapour-phase detection could resolve alarms while the
bag remains closed, improving both security effectiveness and passenger experience.

Project Achievements

TRL progression: Advanced from TRL4 laboratory feasibility to TRL6 demonstration _x000D_
through controlled evaluations and a programme of representative baggage trials._x000D_
• Sampling innovations: Vacuum suitcase sampling, improving vapour collection _x000D_
efficiency by more than two orders of magnitude compared to atmospheric sampling._x000D_
Sampling and analysis can be carried out in around 2 minutes, as shown in the video._x000D_
• Detection feasibility: Confirmed detection of butanone (MEKP precursor), glycerol _x000D_
(nitroglycerin precursor), nitroglycerin tablets, TNT fingerprints, and RDX emitters. _x000D_
Demonstrated additional capability for narcotics (MDMA) and opioids (fentanyl)._x000D_
• Representative baggage trials: Verified detection feasibility with sealed bottles in wash _x000D_
bags, closed suitcases, interior compartments, and surface fingerprints.

Conclusions

The project demonstrated that vapour alarm resolution for cabin baggage is technically feasible. _x000D_
By pairing new sampling strategies with the VPSCAN Explosive Vapour Detector (EVD) _x000D_
analyser, the consortium established proof-of-concept performance, highlighted technical _x000D_
challenges, and set the foundations for further development. This work confirmed the value of _x000D_
vapour detection in enhancing checkpoint efficiency while reducing intrusive searches

Next Steps

The next phase will build on this feasibility demonstration by:
• Developing robust peroxide ionisation methods (APCI and dual-source).
• Refining vacuum suitcase sampling into a practical checkpoint-ready process.
• Expanding the validated threat library to the full ECAC threat list.
• Transitioning from VPSCAN MS feasibility studies to next-generation tandem-DMA
analysers, enabling a more compact, fieldable solution.
• Conducting UK airport sandbox trials to validate throughput, false alarm performance,
and passenger acceptance.
These steps will progress the system towards TRL7–8, certification, and pre-commercial
deployment, positioning the UK as a leader in next-generation vapour-based alarm resolution.