Russian scientists created a laser to search for drugs

The device which was created by scientists of the Scientific Center in Chernogolovka under the direction of RAS Corresponding Member Igor Kukushkin, is fundamentally different from its foreign analogs. New product of national science can determine the composition of the liquid through the glass and plastic, immediately identify piracy products, as well as to detect drugs.

Such foreign appliances use so-called Raman spectrum to detect drugs. For this purpose laser beam is directed to the substance to launch molecules, emitting a set of spectral lines. The composition of the substance is judged by the lines. The Russian device works the same way, but much more efficiently, and costs about half the price, as Alex Steblev, one of the developers, says.

It is important to note that the Russian analyzer has one fundamental difference from its foreign analogs: in addition to the Raman spectrum, it also applies fluorescent to struggle with all sorts of scams. They reveal the forgery of various goods, drugs, counterfeit products in chemical and petrochemical industries.

To do this, fluorescent markers can be added to medicinal powder at the plant – Steblev explains. - And then at the output of plant’s DTC or in pharmacies to laser medicine to see if it is tampered or not. Moreover, you don’t even have to open a box of medicine to see it.

According to the developers, the device has enormous prospects for use. It can find the explosives, narcotics and toxic substances at border inspection; to conduct a rapid analysis of water quality and air; to conduct clinical tests; to determine the authenticity of the precious stones. The Skolkovo Fund allocated a grant of 30 M RUR for the creation of this device.