Improved laser-induced fluorescence method for bio-attack early warning detection system

Abstract

Laser Induced Fluorescence (LIF) could permit fast early warning systems either for point or standoff detection if a reliable classification of warfare biological agents versus biological or non-biological fluorescing background can be achieved. In order to improve LIF discrimination capability, a new system is described in which the fluorescence pattern is enriched by the use of multiple wavelength delayed excitation while usual spectral fluorescence analysis is extended to time domain to use both aspects as criteria for classification. General considerations and guidelines for the system design are given as well as results showing good discrimination between background and simulants. © 2008 SPIE.