There is some debate going on in the Thai press about the GT200 detector.
GT200 lab studies ruled out for now
This is purported to be a hand-held device requiring no batteries that operates on static electricity and able to detect explosives and narcotics.
The manufacturers website is at
EK9 GT200 Remote Substance Detection
I understand that one uses different 'substance recognition cards' in the machine depending on what you are looking for - narcotics, explosives, whatever.
It is claimed that the devise has the following detection capabilities:
Detection distance:
* Water (depth) 800 meters
* General search 700 meter
* Earth (depth) 60 meters
* Aerial 4 kilometers
The Thai authorities, quite rightly before handing out large sums of money, have requested laboratory tests to determine whether the device really works. The manufacturers have refused to allow this claiming possible infringement of intellectual property rights.
It's not April 1st so this has to be a con, right? If this thing really worked why isn't it in general use in airports across the world putting paid, once and for all, to the !!!! that passengers and crew have to endure before they board an aircraft?