Precursor chemicals are used in the illegal manufacture of illicit drugs and explosives. These chemicals are typically available legally and are used in many consumer products and pharmaceutical products. Regulatory agencies monitor international trade of these chemicals, but they are often disguised among criminal trafficking groups. This organized crime has become more sophisticated and difficult to identify.

HANDHELD RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY FOR PRECURSOR IDENTIFICATION

The Rigaku series of handheld 1064nm Raman spectrometers provide a nondestructive, reliable and safe method for analyzing and identifying dangerous chemicals. Its ability to scan through translucent packaging makes it an ideal technology to be used by regulatory agencies for illicit substance interdiction, while eliminating the risk of exposure to the user. The standard library included on all three Rigaku models (the ResQ, ResQ FLX, and ResQ CQL) include common cutting agents, as well as precursor chemicals.