SelectScience
Join Free
Accelerating Science
NewsDrug Discovery & Development

Thermo Scientific Gemini Analyzer enhances identification of low dose concentration of illegal substances

Thermo Fisher Scientific

The analyzer with LowDoseID for narcotics analysis eliminates concentration limitations from testing process

28 Jul 2020
Diane Li
Assistant Editor

Product news

New trends in the manufacture and distribution of illicit narcotics to include low, distributed concentrations to offset high chemical potency has created challenges in substance identification for customs, border protection, law enforcement, public safety officials and military personnel. The Thermo Scientific Gemini Analyzer, now with LowDoseID, specifically addresses the rising trend of low concentration amounts of illicit substances.

The analyzer combines Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) into one device to facilitate comprehensive and confirmatory chemical identification for substances with a concentration between one and 10 percent. The ability to detect small amounts of substances significantly enhances accuracy and efficiency for first responders, particularly when identifying the presence of Fentanyl, heroin and cocaine.

"There is more pressure for law enforcement and military personnel to stay ahead of trends in illegal drug manufacturing and smuggling, and that includes the changing concentration of substances," said Erica Hirsch, vice president and general manager of Thermo Fisher Scientific's field and safety instruments business. "The Gemini Analyzer with LowDoseID meets an immediate need by increasing the accuracy of drug identification in low dose situations while keeping safety, reliability and ease of use top of mind."

In addition to new functionality through the introduction of LowDoseID, the Thermo Scientific Gemini Analyzer has also undergone a software update. The version 1.8 software enhances ease of use with on-screen color-coded alerts based on analysis results and an expanded factory chemical library, which allows for increased identification capacity relative to prior software versions, as well as smoother operation. The Gemini Analyzer was originally created for military and hazmat situations where ruggedization is a priority, which means Gemini instruments are designed to work reliably even in the harshest environments.

Want more of the latest science news straight to your inbox? Become a SelectScience member for free today>>

Links

Thermo Fisher ScientificCompany website

Tags

Sample PreparationSample preparation can improve the quality and speed of separation techniques. Products to assist sample preparation include filtration equipment, evaporators, membranes and sieves.Infrared / IR SpectroscopyInfrared (IR) spectroscopy measures the interaction of infrared light with a sample, including transmission, reflectance & absorbance, facilitating the identification of analytes. Equipment used for quantitative analysis includes Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometers, infrared cameras, FTIR gas analyzers, as well as attenuated total reflectance (ATR) accessories and pellet or film presses. Find the best IR spectroscopy products in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Combinatorial ChemistryCombinatorial chemistry, also known as combichem, is a technique used in drug discovery to create libraries of structurally related compounds. A library is generated by synthesis with a chemical reactor system or by computer-based modeling of compound combinations. When undertaking combinatorial chemistry consider reagents, buffers, resins and standards.Environmental Monitoring and TestingEnvironmental monitoring and testing uses handheld portable analyzers, kits, spectrometers or chromatography systems for air, water, soil, food and other sample testing. Useful features of analyzers such as BOD and COD include portability, easy calibration, automation and sensitivity.  Environmental test kits for pH, water, moisture, etc, should be accurate, sensitive, reliable, fast and easy to use.Biopharmaceutical AdvancesBiopharmaceutical advances follow the development of pharmaceuticals derived from biotechnology, also known as biotechnology medicines. Biopharmaceuticals may be produced from cell lines, plants, or microbial cells. Important considerations of biopharmaceutical use include application, cost, production process and purification.Toxicology / Drugs of Abuse TestingToxicology and Drugs of Abuse Testing is the investigation into toxic and illegal substances found at the scene of a crime or from a suspect and / or victim associated with a scene of a crime. Analyzers, immunoassays and drugs of abuse test kits and presumptive test kits are an essential aspect of toxicology investigation.RegulatoryPharmaceutical regulations impact on all areas of drug development, manufacture and control and supply. Services are provided from the early stages of drug development and clinical trials through to dossier submission, approval and marketing. Regulatory also includes submission of analytical studies from the pharmaceutical product and safety. Drugs of AbuseA drug of abuse is a drug that has been taken for non-medical purposes. Such drugs can have mind-altering effects, with some causing dependence and addiction.Raman

Related articles

Thermo Scientific Gemini Analyzer enhances identification of low dose concentration of illegal substances