GreyScan

The GreyScan technology is focused on identifying trace amounts of inorganic explosives commonly found in homemade explosives. The capillary electrophoresis process used in GreyScan detects trace levels of inorganic explosives within 60 seconds. The accurate, consistent and rapid identification of these explosives is a first for any explosive trace detection system worldwide.

The GreyScan technology was developed by the Australian Centre for Research on Separation Science (ACROSS) based at the University of Tasmania. Grey Innovation was the industry partner in the initial development of the proof-of-concept demonstrator. This demonstrator system underwent extensive bench and field testing and proved to consistently and accurately detect inorganics from common background ions, from a solid surface in 60 seconds.

Samples for analysis by the system are collected from a target surface using a swab. The swab is placed into the introduction port, from which the device then extracts the sample. The extracted fluid is then analysed for target inorganic explosive anions utilising capillary electrophoresis.

In 2014, the University of Tasmania (UTAS) licensed its novel explosive detection technology to Grey Innovation. Grey Innovation is advancing the further development and commercialisation of the next generation of this explosive detection technology through GreyScan Pty Ltd.

In 2020, in response to COVID-19 and future virus threats, GreyScan extended its product portfolio to include Trace Virus Detection (TVD) for the environment/surfaces and (TVD-1) and for mass testing of people with the breathalyser (TVD-2). Research and Development is underway with commercialisation planned for 2021.