Tasmanian University develops world-first device to keep civilians safe

A University of Tasmania team has won a Eureka Prize for the development of the world’s first trace detection device that can identify inorganic explosives in under a minute.

The Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Melissa Price MP, congratulated Team Grey Scan for winning the Defence Science Technology sponsored prize for Outstanding Science in Safeguarding Australia, at last night’s Australian Museum Eureka Prizes in Sydney.

“Until now, it has been impossible to identify trace amounts of inorganic explosives commonly found in homemade devices, which pose a greater risk than conventional explosives due to their easily obtainable components,” Minister Price said.

“Team Grey Scan’s portable, compact device will assist in safeguarding Australia through its possible use in mass transit locations, such as airports, train stations, cargo and mail handling facilities, and public events.

“I also wish to congratulate Defence for supporting the Australian Eureka Prize for Outstanding Science in Safeguarding Australia, which recognises quiet achievers who are not often publicly acknowledged, but whose visionary work impacts upon Australians every day.

A full list of finalists can be found at https://australianmuseum.net.au/get-involved/eureka-prizes/2019-eureka-…. Further information regarding Defence Science Technology can be found at https://www.dst.defence.gov.au/.