Advancements in optical sensors for explosive materials Identification: A comprehensive review

Abstract

Continuous developments in detection technology are necessary because of the considerable threats that explosive materials represent to public safety and security. Optical sensors have emerged as powerful instruments for this purpose, offering non-invasive, real-time, and highly sensitive detection capabilities. This review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of research in optical sensors such as Laser-induced fluorescence, Raman spectroscopy, and photoluminescence based sensors intended to detect explosive compounds. This study delves into the basic concepts of optical sensing technologies, classifies different kinds of optical sensors according to their construction and functionality, and examines their wide range of uses in public safety, transportation security, and the military. The difficulties that optical sensors encounter—such as environmental influences or interferences and problems with specificity—are reviewed, along with the research that is now being done to solve these difficulties. The benefits and drawbacks of optical sensors are brought to light through a comparison with conventional detection techniques. Furthermore, new developments that will impact explosive materials identification in the future are identified in the article, including the fusion of machine learning and nanotechnology. By synthesizing existing knowledge and providing insights into the strengths, challenges, and future directions of optical sensors, this review aims to be a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers involved in enhancing explosive materials detection capabilities.

Keywords

• Considerable threats
• Sensing technologies
• Challenges
• Nanotechnology
• Machine learning