IED detection now possible, courtesy 'laser pointer'

The potential dangers that roadside bombs pose to the sanity of human life can be best understood when one looks at the vulnerability of the natives of Afghanistan and Iraq, among other countries. The natives of these countries live under the constant fear of falling prey to some roadside bomb. Numerous lives on countless occasions have been lost owing to this. Now, if the findings of a Michigan State University, chemistry professor, Dr. Marcos Dantus are anything to go by, then a laser beam, also being referred to as a ‘laser-pointer’ could prove to be a life savior to many. 

Detecting vibrations, saving lives.. (Image source: Getty Images)

The ‘laser-pointer’ technology, in question can potentially detect IED’s (Improvised Explosive Devices) from a healthy distance. IEDs are essentially homemade bombs. Before the laser beam invention, it is being reported that the detection of IEDs hidden was difficult, since the chemical compounds in the surrounding atmosphere would very effectively seal it. The extremely molecular sensitive laser pointer can identify the presence of an explosive by detecting the vibrations of the IED molecule. According to a report that appeared in BBC, each molecule is characterised by a unique vibration pattern, and scanning the ground looking for vibrations let out by the IEDs, if any. 

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Interestingly, the laser-pointer beam also comprises of brief pulses, which the report adds, instigates the molecules, thereby leading their vibrations to be strong, strong enough to be detected. The success of this technology, needless to say will prove to be a path-breaking invention considering the number of lives that will be saved.