Member Article

Security scanners set to revolutionise Durham Tees Airport

Durham Tees Valley Airport is introducing revolutionary new security equipment created by a local business to scan for dangerous liquids.

Kromek, who specialise in digital imaging for X-rays, developed the equipment to identify liquids in any type of container without having to open the container or physically check the material inside it.

The airport decided to introduce the new scanners in preparation for the new regulations relating to taking liquids onto planes. The changes will take place in the autumn, but by changing over to the new equipment now, the airport will have time to schedule training and other security considerations.

Kromek has also attracted some interest from other airports and other security agencies, and it is hoped that the invention will revolutionise the industry.

Airport manager Shaun Woods said; “Currently we are using checking measures which involve physically opening a container in order to carry out checks, which is both time-consuming and can in itself involve safety considerations for the security staff carrying out the examinations.”

“The new scanner has received approval from Europe’s air safety regulators and requires no physical sampling. It can also handle containers up to 2 litres of any shape or material.”

Kromek was formed as a spin-off from Durham University’s physics department and has successfully developed technology which is used in the security, defence and medical sectors.

Kromek Chief Executive Dr Arnab Basu added: “We are delighted to be working with the local airport in Teesside in a forward-looking partnership, aiming to increase passenger safety and security while at the same time ease restrictions on the travelling public.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .