Press Release Library

First Defender – Breakthrough Rugged, Handheld Chemical Identification System Available to First Responders

Wilmington, MA. - March 23, 2005 - Ahura Corporation, a manufacturer of rugged optical instrumentation, has developed a revolutionary handheld Raman instrument for the identification of unknown liquids and solids by first responders. The new First Defender system has been shipping to teams in North America and Europe.

The rapid identification of potentially hazardous materials including toxic industrial chemicals, explosives, chemical warfare agents, and narcotics is becoming increasing critical to first responders. The First Defender is the only truly handheld and rugged instrument for in-the-field identification of unknown solids and liquids by first responders, soldiers, law enforcement and homeland security personnel on-site. The First Defender sets the standard for accuracy, applicability, durability, ruggedness and usability,  far exceeding anything else available. Based on Ahura’s patented “optical engine” technology, the First Defender offers superior performance and is extremely easy to use

The First Defender is an all-optical system based on Raman spectroscopy. Raman has unique properties that complement other techniques currently used in the field. 

Raman:

  • Identifies liquids and solids
  • Library capable of holding thousands of unique substance signatures
  • Sampling is non-contact, non-destructive and requires no preparation
  • Can identify chemicals in aqueous solutions
  • Can identify the components of mixtures

The First Defender system has taken high resolution Raman spectroscopy and optimized it for use in the field. It enables accurate identification of liquids and solids in seconds:

  • Lightweight – Less than 3 lbs, including battery and internal computer
  • Rugged and waterproof (mil spec)
  • Designed to be operated in a Level A suit
  • Handheld
  • Sophisticated algorithms allow users to easily obtain correct results at the scene
  • Operates over wide temperature range (-200C to 400C)
  • Dual mode (in sample vials or directly onto sample)
  • Large sample library including: WMD, chemical weapons, explosives, toxic chemicals, white-powders, narcotics, contraband, & forensics
  • 5 Hour Operational Battery Life
  • Fast startup operation: 15 seconds from a cold start to first measurement

“We are committed to become the leader in innovative ultra compact portable instrumentation” announced Dr. Daryoosh Vakhshoori, Founder and CEO, “We are driven to develop cost effective products for first responders. We will continue to push the technological envelop on product performance while moving quickly to transition our designs into production for customers in government and industry.”

About Ahura Scientific, Inc.

Ahura Scientific, Inc. develops rugged, ultra-compact, field-enabled optical systems for the immediate identification and authentication of liquid and solid chemical substances. Customers include the homeland security, life sciences, industrial and medical markets. Manufactured in the USA in an ISO 9001-certified facility, the company’s products offer exceptional portability and unparalleled performance. 

More information at www.ahurascientific.com.

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Media Contacts:

Kerstin Barr, Ahura Scientific, Inc.

978-642-2547 phone
kerstin.barr@thermofisher.com