Two original breakthrough technologies of Gas Ion Distillation (GID) and Sequential Ion Processing (PRO) provide live visualization (vis) of volatile chemicals in ambient environments giving humans access to a molecular world heretofore unseen. Molecular auras in GIDPROvis are delivered by small, portable GIDPRO analyzers based on high speed separation of ions derived from individual chemicals and their identification using an emerging generation of ion analyzers. In GID, chemicals are separated as gas ions through reaction thermochemistry, replacing classic separations based on physical properties. This is seen as a revolution or a paradigm shift as “new chromatography” making columns and stationary phases obsolete. In PRO, ions are sequentially processed using emerging discoveries of fragmentation of gas ions in strong electric fields. Structurally significant information in fragment ions permits chemical identifications informing a central data hub and enabling live display of molecular auras. Certain chemical properties, such as toxicity and reactivity, are integrated to “fit the goals, tasks, and needs of individual users” for effective information flow with the human-machine system. While GIDPROvis is principally technology driven, aspects of emotional responses of humans to massive access to chemical information, impacts from these perceptions, and human psychology will be explored in simulated, controlled visual experiences of chemical auras. Our aim is to launch a fourth generation of methodology for chemical analysis aligned intrinsically to 5G and IoT communication with miniaturized, ultra-low detection level, live data analyzers to detect and identify chemicals in complex matrices.

The EU-RADION project will provide an innovative solution to deal with selected shortcomings in CBRNe protection indicated in the ENCIRCLE Catalogue. The project will provide an operational radiological threat detection and identification system comprising several technological components. The components encompass radiological threat dispersion modelling and analysis tools, test sensor platforms including swarm of mini UGVs, tactical command tool, network controller and sensor integration unit. The sensor integration unit (SIU) will be a novel detector, which includes several radiological threat sensing devices supported by hydrogen sensor and positioning module. The SIU will be adaptable to several platforms (including stationary, handheld and UGV mounted units) and capable of operating in both indoors and outdoors environments. Furthermore, the system will feature a computational tool allowing for estimating the dispersion of RN material and its potential source. Moreover, the Tactical Command tool (TC) will be the highest layer of the system responsible for providing a user interface to the system and integrating data acquired from measurement and computational components. This component will cooperate directly with the network controller (NC) in order acquire data from radiological sensors. EU-RADION also assumes the implementation of UGV swarm concept for radiological threat detection and evaluation of its performance in CBRNe domain. EU-RADION will be based on system-of-systems approach. All of the developed components will be designed as fully operational and independent modules. This will enhance the system interoperability and facilitate potential integration with other existing systems. The final system will be demonstrated in realistic environment (training tunnel).

The EU-SENSE project will provide an innovative technical solution to deal with selected shortcomings in CBRNe protection indicated in the ENCIRCLE Catalogue of Technologies. The created system will be a step-forward in chemical detection by developing a novel network of sensors that exploits advanced machine-learning and modelling algorithms for improved performance. The salient objectives of the project include development of an adaptable and multipurpose threat detection system (network of sensors, comprising both stationary and person-worn sensor nodes supported by environmental noise learning algorithm for false alarm rate reduction) and tools for enhancing situational awareness based on the sensor data (threat source location estimation and hazard prediction solutions). In general, the developed system will improve the threat detection capabilities and will increase state-of-the-art sensors reliability by networking and novel algorithms. Moreover, the project will implement a dedicated mode covering CBRNe practitioners training aspect. The mode will be an integral part of the system and will allow for familiarization with the equipment (the system) as well as training and rehearsal for specific situations. The EU-SENSE will be strongly user-driven and the demonstration of the developed system will be conducted in the realistic working conditions, in the professional firefighters training centre and with the use of chemical simulants. The project will also consider the issue of interoperability between various chemical sensors and will propose a concept for standardisation of sensor network description.

The CHIMERA project will provide a ground-breaking solution to the selected shortcomings and gaps in the CBRN security market. The project aims to do so by developing a multiplatform Command & Control CBRNe system for responders, dispatch and crisis centres providing an area of interest overview, asset management, and real-time data visualization, as well as by developing a multipurpose heterogeneous sensor node for CBRNe detection allowing for the integration of commercially available detection instruments. Furthermore, the project aims to implement a real-time dispersion modelling software for C&R agents to provide dispersion models and source estimations considering the 3D urban environment, and to integrate data fusion algorithms combining data from different sensors from chemical, radiological or biological layers to enable agent identification and false alarm reduction. Ultimately, the CHIMERA project will create a commercial-ready database combining C, B and RN substance/agent characteristics. With these solutions, the project’s outcomes will considerably enhance both the operational capabilities of the first response and crisis management teams and the safety of the on-site personnel. All project-developed components will function as individual units as well as part of the whole system. In addition, the CHIMERA system will feature an open design to enhance its interoperability and facilitate other existing systems integration. To illustrate the system’s potential for real-world application, it will be demonstrated before a live audience of stakeholders, industry representatives, and potential end-users in a realistic scenario.

Biotoxins pose significant challenges to current crisis management approaches. Existing concepts of operation, derived from Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear doctrines, and Union Civil Protection Mechanism initiatives, do not address the distinctive and highly complex attributes of a biotoxin crisis. EMBRACE aims to improve Europe’s capacity to respond effectively to biotoxin incidents. We will consolidate and apply scientific and clinical knowledge of biotoxins to revise response protocols and deliver innovative solutions specifically tailored to address gaps and needs identified in current provision. Highlights include analysis of biotoxins not previously addressed in this context, risk-based recommendations for PPE and novel decontaminants, in vitro studies to identify human biomarkers of exposure, novel samplers, portable biosensors and field diagnostics devices, and software tools to assist responders in biothreat risk assessment. To ensure intersectoral and cross-border interoperability of these solutions and successful commercialisation of our exploitable assets, we will prioritise a carefully planned standardisation and valorisation programme. EMBRACE will engage with existing initiatives and projects to create a vibrant biotoxin knowledge network; a multi-sectoral community of stakeholders, on the basis of which a sustainable Biotoxin Task Force will be established as a source of expertise and guidance on biotoxin incidents both for EMBRACE and the wider community. The network of stakeholders and EMBRACE’s ambitious programme of scientific, technological, and operational advances will be supported by the creation of a biotoxin reference and stakeholder hub designed to facilitate knowledge exchange and provide users with direct access to widely distributed and expertise. Finally, EMBRACE’s innovative sustainability strategy will ensure that its solutions and the biotoxin community continue to thrive beyond the duration of the project.