Gasera Sensor Imitates Sniffer Dogs

Measurement equipment producer Gasera Ltd. said it has completed a three-year collaboration with the European Union, developing technology that imitates sniffer dogs for border patrol and the police.

The aim of the project was to develop a portable device for detecting smuggled drugs, explosives and people. The project ended in January, culminating in a Gasera sensor module for the device based on patented gas measurement technology.

“The device we developed through the project is exceptional because it is the world’s first single-device solution that can detect drugs, explosives, hidden people and even banknotes by reacting to the gas compounds emitted into the air,” said Gasera CEO Ismo Kauppinen.

The technology can be used for detecting different drugs, such as amphetamine, cocaine, heroin and cannabis.

“Sniffer dogs can only be trained to detect a limited range of substances, and they always have to be accompanied by a handler,” Kauppinen said. “Despite these limitations, dogs still have an unparalleled ability to smell certain compounds. Our technology is suited for different, large-scale detection activities, for example those conducted at airports or border crossing points where the volume of objects to be tested is high.”

Gasera produces measurement equipment for the analysis of gases, liquids and solid materials.