Security

By detecting the constituent elements of human breath it is possible to detect the presence of humans hiding in enclosed spaces. A common experience for most people is to notice that a small room which is poorly ventilated soon becomes 'stuffy'. The main gas that causes this effect is the carbon dioxide exhaled in breath.

This gas is odourless but it is detected by the human body which then responds by making breaths deeper and quicker ie the body attempts to compensate for the lack of 'fresh' air so it is understandable that a feeling of discomfort soon follows.

In analytical terms, the level of carbon dioxide noticed in this way is quite large but by using modern infra-red gas analysis sensors a small portable instrument can be used with a detection level approximately one hundred times more sensitive.

The Gas Data GFM200 series instruments are purpose designed for this application. The instruments have both the gas analysis and the user controls optimised for easy and fast operation during routine security checks at ports and other freight terminals. The GFM220 and GFM225 instruments have the capability of multiple gas channels typically being configured for detection of carbon dioxide (CO₂) and optionally oxygen (O₂)