EXPLOSIVE DETECTION TECHNOLOGIES MARKET ANALYSIS

Global Explosive Detection Technologies market is estimated to be valued at US$ 13.77 Bn by 2030.

Explosive detection technologies are systems or devices designed to identify explosive materials through destructive means. These technologies are frequently employed at ports, airports, and border control points. There are two primary categories of explosive detection equipment: trace detection and bulk detection. Various technologies are utilized in these systems, including explosive X-ray, infrared, biosensors, optical, non-optical, and others.

To identify minute traces of explosive materials, several types of machines are employed. The most commonly used technology for this purpose, especially at U.S. airports, is ion mobility spectrometry (IMS). Additionally, gas chromatography (GC) is utilized for detection by separating molecules prior to identification.

Global Explosive Detection Technologies Market: Regional Insights

In 2023, during the projected timeframe, North America is predicted to emerge as the largest market for explosive detectors. This growth can be attributed to the presence of prominent companies in the United States, such as American Science & Engineering, Inc., Analogic Corporation, Flir Systems, Inc., Implant Sciences Corporation, and L-3 Communications Holdings, Inc.

In the forecast period, the Asia-Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate. This can be attributed to the increasing government initiatives in countries like China, which have led to significant potential growth in the field of explosive detectors. China, in particular, is focusing on enhancing airport security, which is expected to drive the market growth.

Europe is projected to hold a notable market share during the forecast period, primarily due to the rise in terrorist activities in France. This has resulted in an increased demand for explosive detectors in the region.

In the Middle East & Africa, the market is being propelled by the growing infrastructural development of international airports in South America and the Middle East & Africa regions. This development is creating opportunities for the expansion of the explosive detectors market in these areas.

Figure 1. Global Explosive Detection Technologies Market Share (%), By Region, 2023

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Global Explosive Detection Technologies Market- Impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic

The global explosive detection technologies market has been significantly impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. The restrictions on international travel, closure of airports, and reduced transportation activities have led to a decline in the demand for explosive detectors. The economic downturn and budget cuts in various sectors have also affected the market negatively. Additionally, disruptions in the global supply chain and manufacturing processes have resulted in delays and shortages of equipment. However, as travel and transportation activities gradually resume and security concerns persist, the market is expected to recover, albeit at a slower pace, with an increased focus on advanced and contactless detection technologies.

Global Explosive Detection Technologies Market- Drivers

Growing Use of Explosive Detection Equipment in Aviation Security

The use of explosive detection equipment in aviation security is witnessing significant growth in the global market for explosive detection technologies. This surge can be attributed to the rising emphasis on enhancing airport security measures to counter evolving threats of terrorism and illicit activities. Governments and aviation authorities across the world are increasingly investing in advanced explosive detection systems to ensure the safety of passengers and cargo. Technological advancements in detection equipment, such as improved accuracy, faster scanning capabilities, and reduced false alarms, are driving the adoption of these systems. The growing demand for efficient and reliable explosive detection solutions is expected to fuel the expansion of the global market in the coming years. For instance, On March 22, 2023, OSI Systems, a firm specializing in security and inspection systems, has been awarded a contract worth US$ 20 million by ANA Aeroportos de Portugal. The agreement entails the provision of multiple units of OSI Systems' RTT 110 (Real Time Tomography) explosive detection system. This cutting-edge checked baggage scanner utilizes advanced computed tomography (CT) technology to enhance threat detection and optimize operational efficiency in airport settings. OSI Systems develops and markets a range of security and inspection solutions, including airport security X-ray machines, metal detectors, medical monitoring systems, anesthesia systems, and optoelectronic devices.

Rising geopolitical unrest is expected to propel the global explosive detection technologies

The explosive detection technologies market is being influenced by the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. This conflict has raised security concerns worldwide, resulting in a greater need for advanced explosive detection systems to protect critical infrastructure, public areas, and transportation centres. Governments and security agencies are placing a higher priority on implementing strong security measures to identify and prevent potential terrorist risks. The demand for sophisticated technologies capable of detecting concealed explosives and mitigating potential attacks has increased significantly. Consequently, the explosive detection technologies market is experiencing a surge as stakeholders seek cutting-edge solutions to enhance security measures and address emerging threats associated with the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Global Explosive Detection Technologies Market- Opportunities

Commercialization of low-cost devices

The rise in the use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) has resulted in a shift from metal-based explosives to chemical explosives. As a result, detection methods involving dogs, physical techniques like gas chromatography combined with mass spectrometry, and electronic detection systems have become more sensitive, selective, and costly. However, the development of portable and miniaturized units is anticipated to reduce equipment costs. This presents a business opportunity for market players to capitalize on by creating affordable devices for chemical explosive detection.

Use of Graphene-Based Spaser

A spaser is a nanoplasmonic component that shares similarities with a laser. It serves as a quantum generator and nano-amplifier, producing a powerful optical field. Graphene, a two-dimensional carbon nano-material derived from graphite, possesses numerous advantageous material properties. It is exceptionally strong, thin, and rigid, making it impermeable, and exhibits excellent thermal and electrical conductivity while being highly energy-efficient. Consequently, a spaser based on graphene has the capability to effectively detect toxic chemicals, explosive materials, and other organic compounds through the unique vibrational transitions of molecules. As a result, the commercialization of graphene is expected to present profitable growth prospects for market participants in the foreseeable future.

Global Explosive Detection Technologies Market- Trends

Technological Advancements          

The market is witnessing continuous technological advancements, leading to the development of more sophisticated and efficient explosive detection systems. These advancements include improved accuracy, faster detection rates, reduced false alarms, and enhanced capabilities for detecting a wide range of explosive materials.

Increasing Focus on Non-Intrusive Detection

There is a growing emphasis on non-intrusive detection methods that minimize the need for physical inspections or contact with the detected objects. Technologies such as explosive trace detection, explosive vapour detection, and standoff detection using advanced sensors are gaining traction due to their non-invasive nature.

Global Explosive Detection Technologies Market- Restraints

Labor intensive process involved in explosive detection

Border security entails conducting various checks on vehicles, luggage, passengers, and containers. Detection methods employed include bulk detection and trace detection technologies. Chemical trace detection relies on the use of ion mobility spectroscopy. Swabbing is performed to detect small traces of explosive residue on hands, laptops, and other items. During this test, a sample is vaporized, and chemical ions are separated to identify any presence of explosives, triggering an alarm if detected. However, this process is time-consuming and labor-intensive, particularly when dealing with large quantities. Moreover, as explosive trace detection is primarily used in high-traffic areas, it needs to be swift to accommodate a large number of screenings within a short period. These factors are expected to impede the market's growth in the foreseeable future.

Growing use IEDs

Terrorists are increasingly using improvised explosive device (IED) that can kill civilians and military personnel and destroy infrastructure. The IEDs can be in different forms and can be delivered to targets in numerous ways, which makes it challenging to trace by explosive detection technologies. This, in turn, is expected to hamper the market growth over the forecast period.

Figure 2: Global Explosive Detection Technologies Market Share (%), By Technology, 2023

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Global Explosive Detection Technologies Market- Segmentation

Global Explosive Detection Technologies Market report is segmented into function, technology & end users.

By Function: Automated and Manual

By Technology: Bulk Detection (X-ray, Infrared, Electromagnetic, and Others), Trace Detection (Optical, Non-optical, Biosensors, Others)

By End User: Airport, Critical Infrastructure, Ports and Borders and Military and Defence

Global Explosive Detection Technologies Market: Key Developments

Major market players are focusing on product launches, in order to enhance their product portfolio.

For instance, in August 2022, Smiths Detection, a threat detection and screening technologies company has commenced the deployment of 30 HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX carry-on baggage screening systems at Leonardo da Vinci International Airport in Rome. The HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX, developed by the company, is an X-ray scanner utilizing computed tomography (CT) technology, which enables the generation of high-resolution volumetric 3D images for rapid assessment of baggage with minimal false alarms. The company has already installed over 950 security system units across approximately 340 airports in the United States. In addition, the agency employs explosive trace detection technology to screen passengers for minute traces of explosive residue.

For instance, in July 2022, to enhance security for VVIPs, the Kolkata Police Special Branch in India is allocating Rs 2 crore towards the acquisition of nine portable explosive detection devices. These devices have the added capability of detecting narcotics as well.

For instance, in September 2021, Smiths Detection, a company specializing in security solutions, has been awarded a contract by Incheon International Airport Corporation (IIAC), an airport based in South Korea. The contract entails the installation of Smiths Detection's explosives detection system (EDS) known as HI-SCAN 10080 XCT. This system will be utilized for screening hold baggage at Terminal 2 of Incheon International Airport (ICN).

For instance, in April 2021, NanoSniff Technologies, an incubated venture of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Bombay, has successfully created the world's inaugural explosive trace detector (ETD) utilizing micro-sensor technology. This groundbreaking device is capable of rapidly detecting explosives in under 10 seconds while also identifying and classifying them into distinct categories. It possesses the ability to detect all types of conventional, military, and homemade explosives, making it highly versatile and effective in security applications.

Global Explosive Detection Technologies Market: Key Companies Insights

Major players operating in the global Explosive Detection Technologies market include Elbit Systems Ltd., Safran SA, Smiths Group plc, Implant Sciences Inc., Chemring Group PLC, L-3 Communications Holdings Inc., Kromek Group plc, OSI Systems Inc.,  Guangzhou Skyscanner Electronic Equipment Co. Ltd., Tongfang Weishi Technology Co., Ltd., Shanghai WeiEn Security Equipment Co., Ltd., Security Electronic Equipment Co., Ltd., Suzhou Aoteng Electron Technology Co., Ltd., and Kunshan Sanxun Electronic Technology Co., Ltd.

*Definition: Explosive detection technology is technology used for detection of explosive material at Airports, border petrol security and ports. The explosive detection technology is divided into two types’ bulk detection and trace detection.