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SEL Number: 07CD-01-DPSI
Title: Detector, Ion Mobility Spectrometry, Point, Chemical Agent


Last Updated: 11/10/2023 11:46:15 AM

Previous SEL Number: 07CD-01-DPSI

Description: Ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) or Differential Ion Mobility Spectrometry (DMS) detector for point chemical agent detection.
DIQCode: [D,I]

ImportantFeatures: Handheld, battery-operated units available for field use.
Self-testing.
Optional wireless remote displays and data logging.
May have capability for explosives detection.

Operating Considerations: IMS offers good sensitivity and selectivity at very quick speeds. However, some IMS systems have unacceptably high false-positive rates, especially in the presence of organophosphate pesticides, and suffer interference when exposed to burning diesel fuels and AFFF (aqueous firefighters foam). DMS is a more recent technology, which offers the speed of IMS but with greater selectivity and lower sensitivity, and with sensors initially about a quarter the size of current IMS systems.

Some devices contain radioactive sources. Devices with radioactive sources require periodic wipe tests and have associated licensing and transportation issues
Consider warm up time, which is a minimum of 10 minutes and can be longer than 20 minutes.
Unit may require a significant recycle time after a positive detection with a rich sample.
Most equipment of this type must be operated at least weekly to maintain calibration and operational effectiveness. See manufacturer's recommendations.
Readout indicates relative concentration, not actual measurement.
Prone to false positives. (DMS should outperform IMS in this area)
Due to low volatility of many CWAs, may require user to be in close proximity of CWA
Chemical Warfare Agents
for detection to occur.

IMS ICostRating: $$$
IMS MCostRating: $$
Insufficient data on DMS products for ICost and MCost ratings.

Training Requirements: Core Training: NFPA
National Fire Protection Association
470 Chapter 8 or Chapter 10.
Initial Training: Moderate (1-2 days)
Sustainment Training: Moderate (1-2 days)

Mandatory Standards:

Applicable Standards and References:


MSSL:
  • REL: Full Canadian Recommended Equipment List
  • REL: LOS-1, Multi-Agency Intervention
  • REL: LOS-2, Scout/Reconnaissance Mission
  • REL: LOS-3, Suspicious Powder Response