On the prospect of application of point-contact sensors to solving the global security problems: An analytical review

Abstract

In recent years, the problem of CBRN materials and explosives has attracted much attention because the threat they pose is high and tends to increase. Effective protection of critical infrastructure against CBRNE threats can be achieved by developing breakthrough technologies to create a new generation of portable, multifunctional, autonomous, energy-efficient, and low-cost devices. One of the advanced approaches to creating new innovative tools to successfully control CBRNE agents can be based on high-tech solutions involving point-contact sensors. Research and development of point-contact sensors is an emerging trend in modern sensorics. To better understand the mechanisms of point-contact sensors operation and their potential to solve the global security problems we pay attention to some of the original properties of Yanson point contacts. They are totally different from those of traditional sensors based on the principle of electric conduction change and, among others, exploit use of tunnelling mechanisms. Special attention is paid to the potential use of point-contact sensors in the development of combined devices and technologies, involving such competing schemes as THz techniques, to detect terror threats and CBRNE agents.