Customs and border protection agencies face mounting pressure to quickly and accurately screen increasing volumes of cargo at ports of entry. Traditional screening methods using ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) are time-consuming, require frequent maintenance, and rely heavily on consumables. In contrast, handheld mass spectrometry tools like the MX908 offer a faster, more efficient alternative for trace-level chemical detection.
The MX908 utilizes High-Pressure Mass Spectrometry™ (HPMS) to detect and identify trace amounts of narcotics, explosives, and chemical threats with high sensitivity. It features:
<1 minute start-up time
Minimal consumables and maintenance
Real-time sample analysis
Drug Hunter mode & Fentanyl Classifier to identify 2,000+ fentanyl analogs without relying on a library
These capabilities streamline border inspections, enabling officers to screen low-risk items quickly and escalate suspicious ones effectively. By integrating tools like the MX908, border agencies can enhance security, disrupt drug trafficking networks, and reduce processing bottlenecks — all while maintaining high operational efficiency.
[post_title] => Trace Chemical Detection for Customs Inspection
[post_excerpt] => Enhance border security with fast, accurate chemical detection for customs inspections. Discover how MX908 handheld mass spectrometer streamlines trace drug identification and boosts operational efficiency at ports of entry.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => trace-chemical-detection-for-customs-inspection
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:28:48
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:28:48
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=28083
[menu_order] => 12
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[1] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 28095
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2025-06-13 08:00:00
[post_date_gmt] => 2025-06-13 12:00:00
[post_content] =>
This application note highlights how VipIR™ and MX908® provide a layered detection solution to help customs and border protection agencies manage growing threats like narcotics, explosives, and chemical agents. VipIR uses FTIR and Raman with Smart Spectral Processing (SSP) for bulk chemical ID, while MX908 excels in trace-level (invisible) detection of evolving synthetic narcotics and precursors. Together, they enable fast triage and confident identification in high-pressure environments, helping officers respond effectively without disrupting commerce. This combined approach strengthens interdiction efforts at ports of entry by addressing both the volume and complexity of modern threats.
[post_title] => Drug Detection at the Border: How VipIR and MX908 Work Together to Elevate Customs & Border Screening
[post_excerpt] => Discover how VipIR and MX908 work together to elevate border drug detection with rapid screening and advanced chemical identification—helping customs agents triage faster, identify threats confidently, and protect ports of entry without slowing commerce.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => drug-detection-at-the-border-how-vipir-and-mx908-work-together-to-elevate-customs-border-screening
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-12 20:33:39
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-13 00:33:39
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=28095
[menu_order] => 179
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[2] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 24355
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2024-05-02 09:30:58
[post_date_gmt] => 2024-05-02 13:30:58
[post_content] =>
Fentanyl and counterfeit pills are extremely dangerous due to their potency and the increasing prevalence of such substances. In a recent study conducted by Dynata, half of the respondents believe fentanyl has significantly impacted their community, while 71% are unaware of new drug threats like nitazenes and captagon. Additionally, 15% feel inadequately informed and wish to learn more to protect themselves. It is crucial to discuss the dangers of fentanyl with friends and family to raise awareness and promote safety.
Customs and border protection agencies face mounting pressure to quickly and accurately screen increasing volumes of cargo at ports of entry. Traditional screening methods using ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) are time-consuming, require frequent maintenance, and rely heavily on consumables. In contrast, handheld mass spectrometry tools like the MX908 offer a faster, more efficient alternative for trace-level chemical detection.
The MX908 utilizes High-Pressure Mass Spectrometry™ (HPMS) to detect and identify trace amounts of narcotics, explosives, and chemical threats with high sensitivity. It features:
<1 minute start-up time
Minimal consumables and maintenance
Real-time sample analysis
Drug Hunter mode & Fentanyl Classifier to identify 2,000+ fentanyl analogs without relying on a library
These capabilities streamline border inspections, enabling officers to screen low-risk items quickly and escalate suspicious ones effectively. By integrating tools like the MX908, border agencies can enhance security, disrupt drug trafficking networks, and reduce processing bottlenecks — all while maintaining high operational efficiency.
With ongoing focus on the opioid crisis, synthetic opioids such a fentanyl have garnered much attention in the public eye. One emerging class of synthetic opioids, known as nitazenes, are increasing in appearance in the illicit drug market. Nitazenes can be up to 40 times more toxic than fentanyl and are often found in low concentrations mixed with substances or disguised as prescription pills.
While many bulk chemical detectors may have various nitazenes in their library, they are unlikely to identify these synthetic opioids in the field due to the low concentrations. The capability to identify these powerful synthetic opioids at trace levels (invisible to the eye/nanogram level) is more important than ever before to further investigations while keeping officers safe.
Identification of mixed street drugs such as heroin, cocaine, meth, fentanyl, and nitazenes
Sampling of exterior packaging limits exposure risk to officers
No sample preparation, results in less than 60 seconds
Reachback services for data analysis by 908 Devices Forensic Chemists
“This tool (MX908) not only enhances the safety for our deputies but also significantly decreases the time between seizing a substance and confirming its identity. Our ability to act swiftly means a safer community and more efficient use of our resources.”
The increasing size of the illegal marijuana market has given rise to an increasing number of trespass cannabis cultivation throughout the world. The heavy use of toxic pesticides by these illegal growers has had significant impact on the environment and wildlife. Many of these pesticides are so toxic, they are heavily restricted or even completely banned by many governments. In addition to the threat these pesticides pose to the environment, they also pose a great threat to responding law enforcement and agencies tasked with dismantling these operations.
With the addition of the pesticide capabilities, the MX908 provides critical identification of toxic pesticides in the field, allowing users to act immediately, while keeping themselves safe. Whether it be on site at an illegal marijuana grow, or at the border identifying smuggled pesticides, the MX908 provides accurate identification of pesticides at trace levels, in a handheld device, for the first time ever.
MX908 Advantages
The only handheld device for rapid trace detection and identification of pesticides at nanogram levels, in the field
Trace capability allows for exterior packaging sampling, reducing exposure risk
Provides actionable data at the point of need with results in less than a minute
Identify numerous pesticides by name to guide clean up efforts and keep personnel on site safe
Developed in partnership with the United States Forest Service (USFS)
Pesticide Targets
Aldicarb
Diazinon
Carbaryl
Imidacloprid
Carbofuran
Malathion
Chlorpyrifos
Methamidophos
A single drop of Carbofuran is enough to kill an adult human. Here a ~1 liter bottle is found at a trespass grow site.
Identifying containers and crop sprayers that have pesticides present reduce the cost of clean up and keep responders safe.
[post_title] => Identify Pesticides at Illegal Marijuana Grows
[post_excerpt] => With the addition of the pesticide capabilities, the MX908 provides critical identification of toxic pesticides in the field, allowing users to act immediately, while keeping themselves safe.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-mission-brief-pesticides
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-22 14:53:58
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-22 18:53:58
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=6910
[menu_order] => 180
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[2] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 5735
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2022-03-25 11:24:22
[post_date_gmt] => 2022-03-25 15:24:22
[post_content] =>
History of CWA Development & Use
The Evolution of CBRN Threats
Chemical warfare agents have evolved greatly over the last 100 years. Choking and blistering agents were the first to be developed and used broadly in combat. More recently, the development of 3rd and 4th generation agents as well as the use of Pharmaceutical-Based Agents have widely replaced them as the weapons of choice in modern conflict.
Modern Threat Detection
The Evolution of CBRN Technology
As CWAs evolved, detection technologies have evolved with them. Enabling warfighters to detect and identify evolving threats with greater accuracy, closer to the front lines.
Choosing a CWA detector that provides broad coverage of likely threats is critical for success. The MX908 is able to detect and identify 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Generation agents, as well as emerging Pharmaceutical Based Agents, and more. The MX908 provides operators with a tool that can change with emerging threats and evolve to meet future needs.
[post_title] => CBRN History Overview
[post_excerpt] => Chemical warfare agents have evolved greatly over the last 100 years, download this timeline flyer to learn more.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => cbrn-history-overview
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:41:45
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:41:45
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=5735
[menu_order] => 238
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[3] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 5701
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2022-03-11 10:54:57
[post_date_gmt] => 2022-03-11 15:54:57
[post_content] =>
Third-generation chemical warfare (CW) agents (binary G series and VX) were developed for their lethality, stability, and ease of weaponization. These have been the focus of CBRNE detection and protective equipment by US and NATO forces, which are well trained and equipped to counter these traditional CW agents.
Unfortunately, chemical warfare agents have continued to evolve. Russian developed fourth generation agents represent the latest evolution in the CW landscape. These A-Series Agents, also known as Novichoks, were employed in 2018 in Salisbury, UK in the attempted assassination of the Skripals, and, most recently, in 2020 in an assassination attempt of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Current global conflicts have increased the concern over use of chemical warfare agents.
Responding to A-Series CW Agents
A-Series agents, potent acetylcholinesterase inhibitors with signs and symptoms similar to traditional G- and V-Series nerve agents, were designed with specific knowledge of existing NATO detection and protective equipment, and ultimately, the goal of countering those detection and protection methods. They tend to be oily liquids which produce little to no vapors. They pose significant cross-contamination and exposure risks due to a combination of high potency and environmental persistence, and consequently a small release can rapidly become a large-area hazard. Due to their increased potency they often require higher antidote doses and can create additional vapor hazards when improperly decontaminated.
Traditional CBRNE detection equipment was designed to detect vapors which are characteristic of G-series and even VX agents, and have not yet evolved to detect or identify A-Series agents. This capability gap poses significant challenges to essential CBRNE tasks such as detection, determining limits of contamination, establishing control zones, selecting decontamination solutions, and verifying decontamination procedures to regenerate combat power in contaminated environments. The US Department of Health and Human Services issued emergency response guidelines for these agents in 2019, where they noted that, “There is a limited fielded capability within hazardous materials teams to detect, characterize, and identify FGAs.” These limitations are also true for traditional military forces.
Responding Pharmaceutical Based Agents
Synthetic opioids such as fentanyl pose a similar risk to nerve agents with their potency and potential lethality. These are often referred to as pharmaceutical based agents (PBAs). While not unique to Russia, these agents were first deliberately weaponized during the Moscow theater crisis where more than 100 people died from respiratory arrest after a PBA mixture was disseminated in aerosol form. Synthetic opioids are readily available through global illicit supply chains and are also synthesized by state actors. There are hundreds to thousands of potential PBA options, none of which are detected by traditional CBRNE detection technology during an aerosol dispersal event.
Aerosols are a fine suspension of liquids or solids in the air. They behave like gases yet are unable to be detected, much less identified, by fielded vapor detectors. This makes aerosolization an incredibly effective deployment method for CWAs and PBAs.
Detection Technology that can Detect and Identify A-Series Agents and PBAs
The MX908 handheld mass spectrometer is the only device able to detect and identify both A-Series Agents and PBAs at trace levels in solid, liquid, vapor, and aerosol forms. Easy to swap sampling modules enable the device to quickly switch from one sample type to another.
As a result, FGA and PBA hazards can now be detected on surfaces and in the air in under 60 seconds regardless of their mode of dissemination. Extensive third-party testing has shown detection efficiencies at or below the toxicologically relevant levels of most agents with a false negative rate of .6% when challenged with A-Series agents of varying purities on operationally relevant surfaces. Advanced software using predictive analytics further expands the detection capability of PBAs by increasing the effective library size to thousands of synthetic opioids.
The MX908 detects and identifies a broad range of priority drugs at trace levels in seconds.
The MX908 has the capability to detect and identify both A-Series Agents and PBAs in solid, liquid, vapor, and aerosol forms
[post_title] => Operational Impact of Fourth Generation Agents and Pharmaceutical Based Agents
[post_excerpt] => The MX908 handheld mass spectrometer is the only device able to detect and identify both A-Series Agents and PBAs at trace levels in solid, liquid, vapor, and aerosol forms.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => operational-impact-of-fourth-generation-agents-and-pharmaceutical-based-agents
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:41:51
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:41:51
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=5701
[menu_order] => 240
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[4] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 5317
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2022-02-02 14:56:00
[post_date_gmt] => 2022-02-02 19:56:00
[post_content] =>
Real-Time Threats Real-Time Detection
MX908
MX908 is a multi-mission, handheld mass spectrometer utilized by elite responders conducting chemical, explosive, priority drug, and hazmat operations around the world.
MX908: A CRITICAL TOOL IN THE RESPONDER TOOLKIT
MX908® detects compounds at trace levels and combines unparalleled sensitivity and selectivity, providing users with confident results and actionable intelligence other handheld technologies cannot. The power of high-pressure mass spectrometry™ (HPMS) accurately discriminates priority threats from the broad range of interferents that lead to false alarms with other commonly used technologies.
DETECT AND IDENTIFY CHEMICALS IN ANY PHASE
With the MX908, one device can analyze any sample you encounter regardless of size or phase of matter. This flexibility combined with the MX908 expanding target list ensures that responders have a device that can evolve with new and emerging threats.
MULTI-MODE THREAT DETECTION
MX908 EXCELS WITH SAMPLES ACROSS THE LANDSCAPE
MX908 EXCELS WITH A BROAD RANGE OF SAMPLES AND CONCENTRATIONS
The MX908 is powered by high-pressure mass spectrometry (HPMS) technology, which enables responders to detect and identify chemical hazards from bulk to true trace concentrations. MX908 is up to 1 million times more sensitive than commonly used Raman and FT-IR technologies. Depend on high-fidelity trace and bulk identification, for point detection or remote area monitoring, all with one device
YOUR MISSION DEFINES YOUR MODE
Based on your specific mission objectives, choose an MX908 Mission Mode that leverages specialized software and hardware configurations to optimize performance for hunting certain chemical classes.
DRUG HUNTER
Methamphetamine
Cocaine
Fentanyl and 2000+ Fentanyl Analogs
Heroin
Cannabinoids
Cathinones
And More…
Identify narcotics in low concentration mixtures (well below 5%)
Establish trace chemical evidence linkages for interdiction, checkpoint operations, and more
Improve officer safety with limited exposure risk
Fentanyl Classifier provides coverage for 2000+ fentanyl analogs
Add case information with the MX908 remote application
CW HUNTER
Novichoks or A-series Agents
Legacy Warfare Agents (G, V, and H-series)
Pharmaceutical Based Agents (including fentanyl, carfentanil, and remifentanil)
Only field deployable detector for trace identification of Novichoks
Only field deployable detector for identification of aerosolized threats
Quantify chemical warfare agents in real time
Identifying Novichoks and other CWAs by name is essential for decontamination and medical response
Allow for broad threat coverage in any state with a single device
Remote area monitoring with MX908 Beacon
EXPLOSIVE HUNTER
Homemade Explosives
Military Explosives
Commercial Explosives
Precursors
Identify trace explosive residues
Identify explosives by name to guide response
Analyze samples safely with no threat of igniting sensitive materials
Identify aerosolized chemical threats dispersed from IEDs and other munitions
Establish trace chemical evidence linkages for checkpoint operations, HME lab response, and more
[post_title] => MX908 Brochure
[post_excerpt] => Download the MX908 brochure to learn about this portable mass spectrometer for real-time detection of explosives, narcotics, and chemical warfare agents.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-brochure
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-07-02 10:50:36
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-07-02 14:50:36
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=5317
[menu_order] => 255
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[5] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 953
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2019-09-23 18:54:39
[post_date_gmt] => 2019-09-23 22:54:39
[post_content] =>
MX908
Detect and identify Novichoks
Chemical Warfare Agents (CWAs) continue to evolve from Chlorine gas in World War I to G-series agents in the 1930s and novel agents used in the UK in 2018. Technology must evolve with these threats to ensure responders can quickly and safely act to protect the public. MX908 has expanded its CW Hunter Mode to include A-series agents, also known as Fourth Generation Agents (FGAs) or Novichoks.
Developed to avoid existing detection technologies, Novichok agents are more persistent than other nerve agents and at least as toxic as VX; some estimate as high as 8 times as toxic. There is a significant risk of cross contamination, so secondary exposures can be just as deadly and difficult to identify. Potential delayed onset of symptoms makes early detection even more critical to minimize casualties, limit the spread of contamination, and conduct appropriate decontamination.
MX908 ADVANTAGES
The only field-deployable tool for rapid trace detection and identification of A-230, A-232 and A-234 at low nanogram levels
Includes a wide range of other CWAs including GA, GB, GD, GF, HD, VX and additional V-series agents (VE, VM, VLX, VS, RVX/CVX and VX acid)
Results in 60 seconds to expedite response and increase public and responder safety
Independently tested by MRI Global; results available on request
CW HUNTER MODE:
NOVICHOKS
For more information: Fourth Generation Agents: Reference Guide, January 2019 This new fourth generation agent guidance from CHEMM makes clear the need for trace detection tools that are adaptable, reliable and ready. https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/citations/AD1066891
Source: Chemical Hazards Emergency Medical Management (CHEMM), U.S. Department of Health and Human Service
Expanded Capability for Toxic Aerosol Detection and Identification
The MX908® Aero enables operators to detect and identify aerosolized threats—such as Chemical Warfare Agents (CWAs) and Pharmaceutical-based Agents (PBAs) —which represent a critical gap in existing trace chemical detection solutions.
An aerosol is a suspension of fine solid or liquid particles which maintain the physical properties of their solid or liquid state but behave like a vapor. This combination of physical state and vapor-like behavior make traditional vapor detectors ineffective against aerosol threats. The Aero leverages proven MX908 sampling technologies and analysis mechanics to address this unique threat.
MX908 ADVANTAGES
The only field-deployable tool available now for rapid trace detection and identification of aerosol threats.
Simultaneous monitoring, detection, and identification of both vapor and aerosol threats.
Flexible sampling modules for easy transition from trace solid and liquid sampling to vapor and aerosol sampling.
Optional accessory can be quickly deployed to fielded units or be purchased with new MX908 devices.
Target Group
Targets
A-series agents (Novichoks)
A-230, A-232, A-234
V-series agents
VE, VM, VS, VX, VX Acid RVX/CVX
G-series agents
GA, GB, GD, GF
Blister agents
HD
Fast-acting incapacitating agents
Fentanyl and analogs (2000+), U-series, AH-7921
Lachrymatory agents
Capsaicin
AERO
The MX908 Aero can detect aerosol particulates dispersed from an explosive device.
An operator using the MX908 can conduct post-blast analysis on-site with the Aero.
MX908 with Drug Hunter Mode future-proofs the device against the ever-changing fentanyl landscape. Novel predictive classification algorithms enable alerts in minutes to previously undetectable threats, setting the MX908 apart from library-based tools.
MX908 ADVANTAGES
Identification of most drugs of abuse
Detection of 2,000+ novel fentanyl analogs
No library updates required
Detection of trace fentanyls within bulk cutting agents (street cut drugs)
Immunity to benign cutting agents such as lactose
Simultaneous identification of mixed street drugs such as heroin, cocaine or methamphetamine with trace fentanyls
Exterior package sampling limits exposure risk
Results in 60 seconds to expedite mitigation or prosecution
No sample prep required for heroin
Electronic records preserve data integrity
“We have been using the MX908 for the past few months and it has already proven to be a tremendous asset in the field for maintaining Officer safety while being able to detect trace elements of multiple drugs in as short as 20-30 seconds.”
Patrick Glynn, Lieutenant Det., Commander, Quincy, MA PD
DRUG HUNTER MODE:
FENTANYL
Minimize exposure risk with exterior package sampling.
MX908’s predictive classification algorithms can recognize the molecular structure of more than 2000 previously undetectable fentanyl analogs.
With ongoing focus on the opioid crisis, synthetic opioids such a fentanyl have garnered much attention in the public eye. One emerging class of synthetic opioids, known as nitazenes, are increasing in appearance in the illicit drug market. Nitazenes can be up to 40 times more toxic than fentanyl and are often found in low concentrations mixed with substances or disguised as prescription pills.
While many bulk chemical detectors may have various nitazenes in their library, they are unlikely to identify these synthetic opioids in the field due to the low concentrations. The capability to identify these powerful synthetic opioids at trace levels (invisible to the eye/nanogram level) is more important than ever before to further investigations while keeping officers safe.
Identification of mixed street drugs such as heroin, cocaine, meth, fentanyl, and nitazenes
Sampling of exterior packaging limits exposure risk to officers
No sample preparation, results in less than 60 seconds
Reachback services for data analysis by 908 Devices Forensic Chemists
“This tool (MX908) not only enhances the safety for our deputies but also significantly decreases the time between seizing a substance and confirming its identity. Our ability to act swiftly means a safer community and more efficient use of our resources.”
Customs organizations are tasked with protecting the border as well as managing the safety and security of passengers, imports, exports and mail centers. It’s a huge operation for every country. Drug detection and seizures are a large aspect of any customs organization. In fact, the New Zealand Customs Service (NZCS) was responsible for responding to nearly 4,300 drug incidents1 in 2023, seizing more than 3,805 kilograms of cocaine, 2,190 kilograms of methamphetamine and 567.8 kilograms of ecstasy.
When faced with dangerous substances and other challenges in the field, customs officers need quick and accurate information about the substances they are handling. Which is why the NZCS turned to 908 Devices’ MX908 trace detection and identification tool. The MX908 is capable of analyzing solid, liquid, vapor and aerosol threats – from street drugs to chemical spills to explosives
These three examples in particular stand out as exemplary use cases.
Case 1 - Narcotics Identification
Suspected Narcotics Identified with Drug Hunter
Drug traffickers go to huge lengths to conceal their contraband, wrapping substances in seemingly innocuous containers, jamming them into the walls of vehicles and more. While multiple technologies, including X-Ray, are deployed to uncover these hiding spots, they can’t tell officers exactly what the packages contain. It’s imperative to verify the substances inside to ensure officer safety and stop illicit drugs from entering their borders.
In one notable instance, NZCS officers identified goods crossing the border that appeared to be multiple large containers of waterproofing material. However, due to suspicious activity, the items were flagged for secondary inspection. The team needed to confirm the presence of illegal substances while maintaining the safety of officers during the search.
Two officers deployed the MX908, swabbing areas of concern—including the bucket handles—which are the most common areas for trace levels of narcotics to be found. Each analysis returned a positive result for methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance that’s highly addictive. The containers were carefully taken apart and numerous extremely small packages of methamphetamine were removed from the waterproofing material, and thereby confiscated. In the words of the NZCS, “the ability of the MX908 to obtain clear and consistent results further encouraged our officers to locate the previously unseen and undetected illicit drugs
Case 2 - Chemical Detection
Identifying Toxic Industrial Chemicals
A freight carrier close to the airport spilled, and an unknown substance that was suspected to be a noxious chemical prompted a response. The NZCS was called in to investigate, however given the proximity to the airport and possible hazards to officers, extreme caution was needed to collect a physical sample. Time was of the essence, and the freight carrier logs were being combed through, but not nearly fast enough to determine the type of substance and remediation protocol.
NZCS officers arrived onsite equipped with the MX908, utilizing the trace vapor capability. A specialist officer donned personal protective equipment and entered the spill site. The MX908 positively identified the presence of dimethylformamide, a solvent for chemical reactions that can impact the eyes, skin, lungs, liver and heart during prolonged exposure. This positive identification enabled officers to properly secure the spill site and implement remediation efforts. The freighter manifest confirmed dimethylformamide, and the spill was contained. The rapid, trace analysis of the MX908 enabled officers to access this information quickly with a high degree of confidence and expedite clean-up.
Case 3 - Explosives Identification
Analyzing Possible Explosives
Bomb threats are always taken seriously, so when a law enforcement agency was contacted by a concerned individual about an abandoned package at a place of worship, the NZCS was called to identify the package. Given the proximity of the venue to public areas, it was ideal to avoid having to evacuate the area, if possible, in order to mitigate undue stress on the public.
The MX908 was again dispatched, this time utilizing the Explosives Hunter Mission Mode, which detects trace levels of military and commercial grade explosives, homemade explosives and relevant precursors. The item was tested with minimal disruption to the package and site, and returned negative results. This gave the agencies involved comfort in mitigating the perceived risk and the ability to downgrade the cordon. This succinct information and inter-agency coordination also enabled officers to clear the scene and move on to their next duties.
Result
Whether using trace identification features for drug traffickers, deploying vapor capabilities to analyze threats or implementing the explosive functionality to assess risk to the public, the NZCS has seen tremendous benefit from 908 Devices' MX908. This multi-mission handheld tool empowers swift response with confidence, helps protect officers and ensures greater public safety and well-being.
Special thanks to the New Zealand Customs Service for their contribution to this Case Study.
[post_title] => Trace Drug Identification at the Border: 3 Scenarios from the New Zealand Customs Service
[post_excerpt] => Whether using trace identification features for drug traffickers, deploying vapor capabilities to analyze threats or implementing the explosive functionality to assess risk to the public, the New Zealand Customs Service has seen tremendous benefit from 908 Devices' MX908.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => trace-drug-identification-at-the-border-3-scenarios-from-the-new-zealand-customs-service
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-23 11:30:49
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-23 15:30:49
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=24430
[menu_order] => 42
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[1] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 27574
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2025-04-07 13:01:58
[post_date_gmt] => 2025-04-07 17:01:58
[post_content] =>
Discover How Chilean Customs Are Outsmarting Drug Traffickers at Airports
Drug traffickers are constantly evolving their smuggling tactics—hiding narcotics in luggage, clothing, even inside the human body. More recently, they’ve started concealing drugs within powders and liquids to evade traditional detection methods. But Chile’s customs authority, Aduanas de Chile, is staying one step ahead. Using the cutting-edge MX908 high-pressure mass spectrometer, their teams are identifying hidden narcotics faster and more accurately than ever before—even when disguised in the most deceptive ways. This case study highlights three separate scenarios to see how the MX908 is helping frontline agents crack down on complex smuggling attempts and keep dangerous substances out of the country.
Drug traffickers use a range of methods to smuggle narcotics through airports, including hiding them in luggage, clothing, and even within the human body. Increasingly, traffickers are concealing drugs within other substances, such as powders and liquids, to evade detection and bypass certain law enforcement technologies.
The MX908 high-pressure mass spectrometer has proven to be a valuable tool in countering these tactics. The following real-world case studies from Aduanas de Chile, the Chilean customs authority, demonstrate how officials are using the MX908 to quickly and accurately identify narcotics at ports of entry.
Case 1 – 28 kilos of Ecstasy in a Painting
During routine inspections, Chilean Metropolitan Regional Customs' K-9 unit flagged a print of a renowned painting of Bernardo O’Higgins, Chile’s "Father of the Nation," for further examination. Shortly thereafter, customs officers employed the MX908 to confirm the presence of MDMA, preventing its illicit transport.
The shipment, originating from Belgium, was subjected to closer scrutiny after trained canine units detected the presence of a suspicious substance. Upon further investigation, customs officers searched the artwork, revealing the concealed narcotics.
The substance was analyzed using the MX908 in Drug Hunter Mode, which verified it as MDMA. Rodrigo Díaz, Regional Director of Metropolitan Customs, underscored the agency’s multi-layered approach to combating drug trafficking.
"Our National Customs Service utilizes a combination of experienced personnel, advanced non-invasive technology, and the exceptional detection capabilities of our K-9 units, which play a vital role not only at the airport but across the country," he stated.1
Case 2 – 4.9kg of Methamphetamine in Animal Figurines
At first glance, an incoming package appeared to contain ordinary gifts sent from Mexico to a residence in Valparaíso, Chile. However, customs officials had previously been alerted to the use of 3D-printed objects as a method for concealing narcotics. Upon opening the package, they found 28 3D-printed animal figures. Suspecting that the objects might be used to smuggle illicit substances, officers utilized the MX908 to analyze the outside of the objects for trace amounts of narcotics.
The MX908 is capable of detecting drug substances at nanogram levels (1 nanogram = 1 billionth of a gram) in under a minute, making it an invaluable tool for customs enforcement. Officers can quickly obtain results, often by simply swabbing the exterior of a package or, as in this case, a 3D-printed object containing hidden drugs.
The MX908 rapidly returned a positive result for methamphetamine, confirming officials’ suspicions. María José Rodríguez, Regional Director of Metropolitan Customs, highlighted the importance of both expertise and technology in drug interdiction:
“In this case, it is the experience of our Drug Department officials that raises red flags on shipments that might otherwise appear harmless. At the same time, the advanced technology at our disposal allows us to quickly and conclusively confirm the presence of illicit substances in shipments entering Chile.”2
Case 3 – 4 Bottles of Liquid Ayahuasca (DMT)
During a routine inspection, Chilean Customs officials identified a traveler from Brazil carrying four bottles of an unidentified brown liquid in their backpack. Suspecting potential contraband, they alerted the drug enforcement unit, which utilized the MX908 to analyze the substance. The MX908 quickly identified the liquid as DMT (dimethyltryptamine), a powerful hallucinogen commonly associated with Ayahuasca.
The MX908 is uniquely capable of identifying chemicals in all phases of matter, including solids, liquids, gases/vapors, and even aerosols. Its advanced detection technology allows it to identify substances at trace levels, even when narcotics are dissolved in liquid. This capability enables law enforcement officers to reliably detect and confirm the presence of illicit drugs with precision and efficiency.
The passenger, along with the seized substances and backpack, were handed over to law enforcement for further investigation. Rodrigo Díaz, Regional Director of Metropolitan Customs, emphasized the effectiveness of swift intervention:
“The inspector immediately identified suspicious elements in the backpack and raised the alert. This allowed us to prevent the passenger from leaving the airport with Ayahuasca (DMT), a prohibited substance due to its severe effects on individuals.”3
Result
These three cases highlight some of the increasingly sophisticated methods used by drug traffickers to smuggle narcotics and the critical role of advanced detection technologies in countering these threats. From concealing MDMA within a framed painting to embedding methamphetamine in 3D-printed figurines and dissolving DMT into a liquid for smuggling, traffickers continue to adapt their tactics to evade detection.
The successful interdiction of these shipments demonstrates the effectiveness of the MX908 high-pressure mass spectrometer in identifying illicit substances quickly and accurately, even in trace amounts. Its ability to analyze substances in any form at trace levels provides customs officials with a powerful tool to combat drug smuggling at ports of entry.
Coupled with the expertise of customs personnel, trained K-9 units, and advanced non-invasive screening methods, the MX908 enhances Chilean Customs' ability to prevent narcotics from entering the country. As traffickers refine their concealment strategies, cutting-edge technology and vigilant enforcement will remain essential in safeguarding borders and disrupting illicit drug networks.
Reference
Patriotic discovery: O'Higgins's body was carrying 28 kilos of ecstasy. https://www.aduana.cl/patriotico-hallazgo-en-cuadro-de-o-higgins-transportaban-28-kilos-de/ aduana/2025-03-07/115346.html. 2025.
Airport prevents entry of methamphetamine in 3D-printed animal figures. https://www.aduana.cl/en-aeropuerto-evitan-ingreso-de-metanfetamina-en-figuras-de-animales/ aduana/2024-03-15/111420.html. 2024.
Customs surprises passenger entering Merino Benítez Airport with more than 5 liters of ayahuasca. https://www.aduana.cl/ aduanas-sorprende-a-pasaiero-ingresando-con-mas-de-5-litros de-ayahuasca/aduana/2024-02-27/082343.html.2024.
On average, the U.S. Postal Service processes and delivers 421.4 million pieces of mail each day. In fiscal year 2023 (October 2022- August 2023), the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) made 5,014 seizures, of drug substances in U.S. mail. That is an average of nearly 14 seizures per day. The most commonly seized substances were:
Substance
Number of Seizures
Quantity of Substance Seized
Cocaine
1,727
5,393 lbs
Meth
1,607
7,189 lbs
Synthetic Opioids (Fentanyl)
1,554
4,038 lbs
Heroin
126
99 lbs
There are many employees and individuals at risk of exposure to these dangerous substances as mail is processed, handled, and delivered. Substances contained within those packages and envelopes are at risk of being dispersed on the surface of packaging materials, mail handling equipment, or in the air. In 2001, this type of threat was brought to light as anthrax attacks within the United States, delivered by ordinary mail, claimed the lives of five individuals. More recently, in November 2023, suspicious letters containing fentanyl were sent to U.S. voting centers and government buildings in six separate states.
Situation
A task force of federal, state, and local officers were investigating individuals and locations suspected of receiving packages containing illicit substances. They began surveillance on a house known to law enforcement to be a drop spot for packages that would later be collected by a neighbor.
After surveillance, officers set up a controlled delivery of the package to the residence. Officers conducted a stop of the vehicle and began to investigate the package. Suspecting the package contained a controlled substance, the officers used a K-9 which did not alert for any substance. This presented a challenge to law enforcement since they did not have a warrant to open the package. Officers had immediate access to optical chemical identification tools but were unable to utilize them since there was no visible material on the package.
Solution
The officers also had access to an MX908 and decided to test the outside of the package for trace residues of controlled substances. Officers swabbed the outside of the packaging focusing on the seals of the package, as these are the most likely areas for residues to collect. The swabs were analyzed using the MX908 Drug Hunter Mission Mode and returned a result of Cocaine. The presence of cocaine on the outside of the package allowed officers to obtain a warrant to open the package. The package was then opened and 2 lunchboxes were recovered, both containing 1 kilogram of cocaine.
Result
In the above scenario, the material inside the package was cocaine, which is not surprising given it was the most seized drug by the USPIS in FY23. However, it could have just as easily been fentanyl. Fentanyl in any form poses a major risk to health and safety due to its highly toxic nature. The average lethal dose of fentanyl and carfentanil are 2 milligrams and 0.02 milligrams respectively. These materials may be easily aerosolized while opening and handling packages or envelopes. In an envelope or package, fentanyl or its analogs could be found in various amounts and may pose a serious threat without being visible. The MX908 can identify fentanyl and its analogs at levels of tens of nanograms or 10,000 times less than the lethal dose of fentanyl and 100 times less than the lethal dose of carfentanil.
In a mail screening operation, this means that a user could quickly and easily determine whether a package or packages contain a dangerous substance by analyzing the air in a controlled processing area or by swabbing the outside of packages. Identification of trace drug substances, whether aerosolized or deposited on the outside of mail and packages, enables users to take appropriate actions and keep employees and first responders safe when handling these materials.
[post_title] => Identifying Dangerous Materials in Mail
[post_excerpt] => Learn what are the commonly seized substances in everyday mail and how our MX908 is utilized as a screening tool to keep employees safe from harmful substance exposures. A simple swab of a package can reveal the contents inside.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-identifying-dangerous-materials-in-mail
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-07-02 10:36:43
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-07-02 14:36:43
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=23145
[menu_order] => 44
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[3] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 22369
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2023-10-30 15:22:42
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-10-30 19:22:42
[post_content] =>
The increasing use of drugs in prisons has become a concerning issue worldwide, posing significant challenges for both correctional facilities and society at large. A primary factor contributing to the rise in drug use within prisons is the ingenuity of inmates and collaborators on the outside. Despite rigorous security measures, contraband substances such as synthetic cannabinoids, cathinones, and opioids find their way into correctional facilities through creative methods like drones or legal mail. The demand for these substances remains high among inmates.
The increasing prevalence of drugs in correctional facilities is well documented:
There has been a 600% increase in inmate deaths in the United States due to drugs or alcohol from 2001- 2018, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics.1 (See Figure 1)
Contraband demands higher prices in prison than on the street and is a contributing factor to availability in correctional facilities. The profit that can be generated by drug sales in prisons is reported to be up to four times greater than that in the community.2
The most abused drugs in prisons include cocaine, heroin, synthetic cannabinoids, marijuana, and prescription medications obtained illicitly.3
Figure 1. Prison Deaths From Drug/Alcohol Intoxication Have Risen Rapidly. In 2001, there were 35 deaths from drug/alcohol intoxication in state prisons. In 2018, there were 249 — a 611% change from 2001.
Situation
Correctional officers face numerous challenges when attempting to keep illicit substances and contraband out of their facilities. A combination of technologies are used to screen everything from visitors to packages and incoming mail. Mail can be particularly challenging to screen for several reasons. The sheer volume of mail coming into a facility makes searching every piece nearly impossible.
Collaborators on the outside are constantly developing new ways to smuggle contraband to inmates on the inside of these facilities. A tactic growing in popularity for smuggling synthetic cannabinoids and other drugs uses saturated paper. In this tactic, the drug is dissolved in a solvent and a letter, greeting card, or other piece of paper is soaked in the solution. Once the paper is completely saturated, it is allowed to dry, and packaged into an envelope as other normal pieces of mail. These drug saturated papers are often disguised as legal mail, which increases the risk of drug consumption in the prison population as correctional facilities are prohibited from opening and interrogating the contents of legal mail.
After the mail is received by the inmate inside the facility, it is often cut into smaller pieces which can then be consumed sublingually or via smoking. A single, one inch square of K2/Spice paper can be sold within the prison for as much as $400 each. Meaning a single sheet of this saturated paper is worth over $30,000.4
Solution
MX908 Identifying a Synthetic Cannabinoid Imbedded in Paper
At a correctional facility in the United States, officers processing incoming mail observed discoloration in different areas of paper, indicating a substance may have been dissolved into the paper. Officers flagged these pieces of mail on the suspicion of being impregnated with controlled substances and set them aside for further screening. While the officers possessed handheld Raman spectroscopy devices, these optical tools are not adept at identifying drugs imbedded in paper. The officers used trace sampling swabs from their MX908 to directly swab the discolored areas of the paper and envelope. No sample preparation was necessary and officers analyzed the sample using the MX908 Drug Hunter Mission Mode. In less than a minute, the MX908 returned a result for MDMB-4en-PINACA, a synthetic cannabinoid. With this evidence, corrections officers were able to seize the incoming mail and prevent it from entering the facility and subsequently being consumed by inmates.
Results
About MX908 in Correctional Facilities
MX908 leverages high-pressure mass spectrometry to deliver dramatically enhanced sensitivity and broader threat category coverage and has proven to be an exceptionally effective tool for drug detection in correctional facilities. The device's capability to rapidly detect a wide range of narcotics, including synthetic drugs, allows correctional staff to proactively address the evolving landscape of illicit substances by identifying drugs at very low, nanogram levels on difficult samples, such as drugs imbedded in paper.
By enhancing security measures and reducing the prevalence of contraband, the MX908 not only ensures the safety of correctional facilities but also supports rehabilitation efforts, ultimately contributing to a more secure and controlled correctional environment.
[post_title] => Identifying a Synthetic Cannabinoid Imbedded in Paper
[post_excerpt] => Read our latest case study on how MX908 aids correctional staff to proactively identify drugs at nanogram levels via trace detection on difficult samples, such as drugs imbedded in paper.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => identifying-a-synthetic-cannabinoid-imbedded-in-paper
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-07-02 10:37:35
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-07-02 14:37:35
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=22369
[menu_order] => 45
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[4] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 6783
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2022-10-25 14:17:07
[post_date_gmt] => 2022-10-25 18:17:07
[post_content] =>
About Khat
Khat (also known as qat or chat) is a flowering shrub which is native to East Africa and the southwest Arabian Penninsula. The buds and plant leaves of khat are chewed to achieve a stimulant effect similar to amphetamine, although khat is less potent. Cathinone and cathine, the active drug components of khat, are released into the user’s saliva as it’s chewed.
Khat chewing has a long history dating back thousands of years as a social custom and for medical uses in its native regions. Although still legal in a few African and Middle East countries, khat (and/or its active components) has been designated as illegal throughout much of the world. In May of 2022, the U.S. Coast Guard seized 10,000 tons (estimated street value of $3.6 Million) of Khat disguised as tea from Kenya while a few months later, Saudi Arabia’s Border Guard seized 48.6 tons of khat and arrested 146 smugglers.
The Situation
At a major U.S. international airport, a shipment from Sierra Leone in western Africa was flagged for further inspection after an officer observed a plant like material in the shipment. This package was nearly identical to a 27 kg shipment that was delivered to its recipient previously because law enforcement had no way to confirm if the shipment was khat.
Khat leaves - this bitter plant is chewed as a stimulant in East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
Knowing the package originated from Africa, where khat is still legal in some countries, the officers took steps to confirm what the material was. The package was opened and the plant material inside was consistent with khat, a bundle of leaves and fresh shoots. Using both a Raman and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrometer, the officers attempted to identify the material, but both technologies gave a “No Target Detected” result. This is not uncommon as these technologies are “bulk detectors” that excel at identifying visible amounts of drug material (typically more than 1 mg).
Suspicious of a possible drug shipment, officers ran the samples in the MX908 Drug Hunter Mission Mode which returned multiple alarms for cathinone, an active drug substance in khat.
MX908 Identifying Drugs When Other Technologies Fail
With no way to identify the suspected khat, responding law enforcement made a call to a nearby agency which had an MX908 and requested their assistance to identify the material. Using the MX908, the officers swabbed various parts of the plant material and packaging to obtain multiple samples. Suspicious of a possible drug shipment, officers ran the samples in the MX908 Drug Hunter Mission Mode which returned multiple alarms for cathinone, an active drug substance in khat. Officers quickly downloaded and sent the data from the scans to 908 Devices to conduct reachback analysis. Reachback analysis by 908 Devices’ forensic chemists supported the on-screen alarms after analyzing the sample and reference spectra. Forensic chemists from 908 Devices also noted that the high sample signal reported on the device was consistent with cathinone given the drugs lower required temperature for vaporization.
The Result
A previous 27 kg shipment of what was presumably khat was delivered to the recipient and likely ended up being sold on the streets. This time, the MX908 was able to provide a positive identification of cathinone, an active component in khat. This positive identification allowed law enforcement to seize the 62 kg shipment and continue their investigation. It also provided them with the confidence to continue to further screen these types of shipments knowing that the MX908 provided a reliable way to identify trace amounts of cathinone where other technologies failed.
About MX908
MX908 leverages high-pressure mass spectrometry to deliver dramatically enhanced sensitivity and broader threat category coverage. This down-range tool increases mission support with unmatched flexibility and trace detection power for first responders in priority drug, chemical, explosive and high-threat hazmat scenarios. MX908 lightens the overall technology burden by displacing other less selective technologies from the response toolkit
References
US Customs and Border Protection, CBP, US Coast Guard Seize more than 10 tons of khat, Department of Justice/DEA Drug Fact Sheet Khat Alcohol and Drug Foundation, What is Khat? European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, Khat Drug Profile
MX908 was able to provide a positive identification of cathinone, an active component in khat. This positive identification allowed law enforcement to seize the 62 kg shipment and continue their investigation.
[post_title] => Identifying Smuggled Khat
[post_excerpt] => Suspicious of a possible drug shipment, officers ran the samples in the MX908 Drug Hunter Mission Mode which returned multiple alarms for cathinone, an active drug substance in khat.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-case-study-khat
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-07-02 10:34:48
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-07-02 14:34:48
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=6783
[menu_order] => 188
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[5] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 4799
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2021-10-26 12:26:35
[post_date_gmt] => 2021-10-26 16:26:35
[post_content] =>
Aerosols are simply a solid or liquid that have been suspended in the air. They maintain the physical properties of a solid or liquid but behave more like a gas or vapor. Aerosolized chemicals can be extremely hazardous due to the inhalation hazard they pose. Highly toxic solids and liquids, such as fentanyl analogs and fourth generation chemical warfare agents (Novichoks), are particularly problematic due to their lethality, yet traditional gas detectors are unable to warn users of the threat. Depending on particle size, they may stay suspended in the air for minutes or hours. Opioids, such as fentanyl and carfentanyl, are low volatility anesthetics that result in rapid respiratory arrest when inhaled in aerosol form. Novichoks, such as A-232 which was deployed in Salisbury, England in March 2018 in an attempted assassination attempt, are low volatility nerve agents that can pose an even greater danger when aerosolized
The Situation
Canadian Decon Solutions, based out of Ontario, Canada, specializes in providing customers with economical and safe solutions for complex contamination issues. They have a history of managing high hazard projects for both the private and public sector including chemical, fuel and oil spills, dangerous goods transportation incidents, clandestine drug lab remediation, and catastrophic events.
During the summer of 2021 they received a call to provide decontamination services for a stolen vehicle. The suspect had stolen a small SUV, overdosed behind the wheel, and crashed the vehicle into a tree. While exiting the vehicle, the suspect had cut herself on broken glass and Chris Andrews, President of Canadian Decon Solutions, was contacted due to the biohazard present. The vehicle was towed to Canadian Decon Solutions’ facility to begin remediation of the vehicle.
Using Aero to Detect Airborne Threats
As part of their Standard Operating Procedures, a technician armed with the MX908®, took several swabs of high contact touchpoints within the vehicle. This included places like door handles, steering wheel, center console, glove compartment, and cabin air filters. While opening the glove compartment to access the cabin air filter, the technician observed a visible amount of white powder within the glove box. Suspecting there may be an airborne chemical threat within the vehicle, the technician carefully shut the glove compartment and backed away to reassess the situation. One month, prior, Canadian Decon solutions had purchased an Aero module for their MX908. The Aero gives their technicians the ability to simultaneously detect and identify vapors and aerosolized chemicals.
Unknown white powder discovered in the glove compartment.
The decision was made to survey the vehicle using the MX908 with Aero to determine if any aerosolized chemical threat was present. Armed with the Aero, the technician reapproached the vehicle, as the MX908 and Aero continuously sampled the ambient air. Carefully cracking open the glove compartment with the Aero nearby, resulted in an alarm for fentanyl. The technician now knew there was in fact, an aerosolized fentantyl threat present within the vehicle. Closing the glove box once again to contain the threat, the technician backed away from the vehicle to determine next steps.
As a company that specializes in the decontamination of hazardous material, the technician was well protected in PPE including a Tyvek suit, respirator, and gloves. Had this analysis been done at the scene of the crash, it would have provided first responders on scene with immediate actionable intelligence to dictate PPE response.
While the technician quite literally waited for the dust to settle, they analyzed the swabs that had been taken off the various high contact touchpoints within the vehicle. The MX908 alarmed for the following:
2 Cocaine Alarms
2 Fentanyl Alarms
1 Scopolamine Alarm
1 Sufentanil Alarm
“The MX908 handheld device has been an unparalleled technology for us. With the addition of the Aero module, it gives me the confidence to do our job and the ability to say with the utmost certainty that a vehicle or scene is clear from threats—both on surfaces and in the air.”
Chris Andrews, President Canadian Decon Solutions
The Result
With a thorough analysis of chemical threats present, both from the MX908 with Aero analysis as well as trace analysis from swabbed surfaces, Canadian Decon Solutions could confidently plan for the decontamination of the vehicle. Their primary method of decontaminating a vehicle like this is First Line Technology’s Electrostatic Decon Kit. This kit offers users the easiest, most efficient way to decontaminate threats using Dahlgren Decon applied from an electrostatic spray gun. After the remediation was complete, the MX908 Aero was again employed to confirm that there was no longer a presence of any aerosolized threats. Subsequent swab samples also returned no alarms and the technician could confidently say that there was no longer a chemical threat within the vehicle.
Given the success of the MX908 with Aero in this scenario, Canadian Decon Solutions has now incorporated usage of this device into their standard operating procedures as an initial survey tool as well as to confirm decontamination is complete. The MX908 has become their go-to tool for trace chemical identification to support their mission. According to Chris Andrews, President of Canadian Decon Solutions, his customers have become accustomed to the detailed reports generated by the MX908 which they submit in conjunction with a summary of the services provided.
The MX908 has become the go-to tool for trace chemical identification to support Canadian Decon Solutions‘ mission.
About MX908
MX908 leverages high-pressure mass spectrometry to deliver dramatically enhanced sensitivity and broader threat category coverage. This down-range tool increases mission support with unmatched flexibility and trace detection power for first responders in priority drug, chemical, explosive and high-threat hazmat scenarios. MX908 lightens the overall technology burden by displacing other less selective technologies from the response toolkit.
About the Aero
The Aero is the first comprehensive solution to detect and identify vapor and aerosol threats, such as Chemical Warfare Agents (CWAs) and Pharmaceutical Based Agents (PBAs), simultaneously. The MX908 with Aero can be deployed in diverse applications ranging from initial air monitoring when entering a building or a confined space, to venue protection employing continuous air monitoring, through high throughput mail screening and on-scene evidence packaging. This device continuously samples and analyzes vapors while collecting aerosol particulates on a mesh within the unit. This mesh is periodically flash heated, which vaporizes any aerosol particulates, and allows them to be analyzed. The Aero is one of three modules that allow the MX908 to analyze samples in any state—solids, liquids, vapor, and now aerosols.
MX908 user interface with Drug Hunter Aerosol Mode selected.
The Aero is the first comprehensive solution to detect and identify vapor and aerosol threats simultaneously.
The Aero attaches to the MX908 for an easy transition to vapor and aerosol analysis.
MX908 is the only field deployable device capable of sampling solids, liquids, vapors, and aerosols.
[post_title] => Aerosolized Fentanyl During Decontamination
[post_excerpt] => Download this case study on Canadian Decon Solutions' encounter with fentanyl and how MX908 with Aero provided real-time intel at the point of need.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-casestudy-aerosolized-fentanyl-during-decontamination
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-07-02 10:35:28
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-07-02 14:35:28
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=4799
[menu_order] => 276
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[6] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 808
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2018-01-10 16:26:08
[post_date_gmt] => 2018-01-10 21:26:08
[post_content] =>
The opioid abuse crisis is rapidly spreading throughout communities across the United States and the rest of the world. In 2015 alone, opioids were involved in the death of 33,091 US citizens – a number that has quadrupled since 1991. In 2016, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) cited an additional increase of 28%, linking opioid abuse to more than 42,000 fatalities2. At 100 to 10,000 times the strength of morphine, fentanyl is typically used in small quantities and is often combined with other street drugs (such as heroine, cocaine and MDMA) or benign cutting agents to deliver the drug into a person’s system. Even trace amounts that are invisible by the human eye can cause an overdose.
This crisis has first responders on alert and has unleashed a call to action for technology manufacturers to develop powerful solutions to detect and identify trace quantities of this mighty drug. Here we outline a real-world scenario that demonstrates the detection capabilities of several go-to first responder tools.
The Situation
During an incident at a suburban residence, a local HazMat team seized a small sample of what appeared to be street fentanyl. After an independent laboratory verified the presence of fentanyl, we were asked to participate in a technology comparison. We evaluated the effectiveness of three portable techniques: Raman, FT-IR, and high pressure mass spectrometryTM (HPMS).
Analysis by Raman
Raman spectroscopy is a go-to tool because of its high selectivity and ability to differentiate between 10,000+ different compounds through sealed packaging. However, Raman is primarily used as a bulk technique. This means a visible amount of sample is required to make the measurement and it is rarely suitable for detecting trace level concentrations. Here, the Raman analysis failed as fluorescence interfered with the measurement and the estimated run time was upwards of 4 hours.
Analysis by FT-IR
Similar to Raman, FT-IR is more suitable for bulk material identification and is also highly selective. Here, FT-IR was only able to detect a carbohydrate, which serves as a cutting agent used to dilute highly toxic opioids. No fentanyl was detected using this technique, despite the fact that the FT-IR instrument was equipped with a library of fentanyl and its related analogues.
Analysis by HPMS
HPMS is a novel technology that powers the MX908. This analytical technique is both highly selective and sensitive, making it the technology of choice for a wide range of chemical threats. Here, a sample estimated to be in the low nanograms was measured on the MX908 using its Drug Hunter mode. The device was clearly able to identify fentanyl in the prescence of the cutting agent in less than 60 seconds.
MX908’s new Drug Hunter mode unlocks additional resolving power from the device’s existing hardware to dramatically upgrade selectivity, which first responders with optimal detection and identification capabilities for a subset of the devices target list, including a broad range of fentanyls, opioids, and amphetamines.
About MX908
MX908TM leverages high-pressure mass spectrometry to deliver dramatically enhanced sensitivity and broader threat category coverage. This down-range tool increases mission support the unmatched flexibility and trace detection power for responders in priority drug, chemical, explosive and high-threat hazmat scenarios. MX908 lightens the overall technology burden by displacing other less selective technologies from the response toolkit.
About Mission Modes
The MX908's Mission Modes are specialized hardware and software configurations for enhanced operational performance under specified mission objectives. Drug Hunter, which was used in this analysis, is a mission mode for the detection and identification of drugs and pharmaceutical-based agents (PBAs) including fentanyl and fentanyl-analogues, heroin, cocaine, and amphetamines. When Drug Hunter is selected, the MX908 hardware reconfigures to provide optimal efficiency and mass spectral selectivity using sequential fragmentation to selectively create and confirm the expected mass fragments of the drug targets of interest.
"The opiod abuse criss is rapidly spreading throughout communitites across the country. In 2015 alone, opiods were involved in the death of 33,091 US citizens - a number that has quadrupled since 1999."
The abuse of fentanyl and other opioids is a crisis within communities all across the country. Due to their potency, fentanyls can be present at very low levels and still pose a severe hazard to first responders and civilians alike.
As demonstrated in this case study, Raman and FTIR are not practical technologies for the detection of trace substances. While great for bulk material identification, they cannot detect minor mixture components below the 5-10% level.
Here, HPMS demonstrated the capability to positively identify a trace amount of fentanyl in less than 60 seconds. The sensitivity of MX908 enables the identification of fentanyl and its analogues down to 0.1%, even in a complex mixture.
MX908 Mission Modes enhance performance using specialized software configurations to optimize operational performance for mission objectives.
Drug Hunter: is a mission mode for the detection of drugs and pharmaceutical-based agents (PBAs) such as: fentanyl and fentanyl analogues, along with other high priority drugs-of-abuse.
Explosives Hunter: is a mission mode for the detection of priority threats from military and commercial grade explosives, to homemade energetics and relevant precursors.
CWA Hunter: is a mission mode for the detection of priority chemical warfare agents, including real time vapor quantification.
[post_title] => Analysis Comparison of Fentanyl
[post_excerpt] => Read how the sensitivity of MX908 enables the identification of fentanyl and its analogues down to 0.1%, even in a complex mixture.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => analysis-comparison-fentanyl
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-07-02 10:35:45
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-07-02 14:35:45
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/analysis-comparison-fentanyl/
[menu_order] => 319
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
)
[post_count] => 7
[current_post] => -1
[before_loop] => 1
[in_the_loop] =>
[post] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 24430
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2024-05-09 16:09:44
[post_date_gmt] => 2024-05-09 20:09:44
[post_content] =>
Customs organizations are tasked with protecting the border as well as managing the safety and security of passengers, imports, exports and mail centers. It’s a huge operation for every country. Drug detection and seizures are a large aspect of any customs organization. In fact, the New Zealand Customs Service (NZCS) was responsible for responding to nearly 4,300 drug incidents1 in 2023, seizing more than 3,805 kilograms of cocaine, 2,190 kilograms of methamphetamine and 567.8 kilograms of ecstasy.
When faced with dangerous substances and other challenges in the field, customs officers need quick and accurate information about the substances they are handling. Which is why the NZCS turned to 908 Devices’ MX908 trace detection and identification tool. The MX908 is capable of analyzing solid, liquid, vapor and aerosol threats – from street drugs to chemical spills to explosives
These three examples in particular stand out as exemplary use cases.
Case 1 - Narcotics Identification
Suspected Narcotics Identified with Drug Hunter
Drug traffickers go to huge lengths to conceal their contraband, wrapping substances in seemingly innocuous containers, jamming them into the walls of vehicles and more. While multiple technologies, including X-Ray, are deployed to uncover these hiding spots, they can’t tell officers exactly what the packages contain. It’s imperative to verify the substances inside to ensure officer safety and stop illicit drugs from entering their borders.
In one notable instance, NZCS officers identified goods crossing the border that appeared to be multiple large containers of waterproofing material. However, due to suspicious activity, the items were flagged for secondary inspection. The team needed to confirm the presence of illegal substances while maintaining the safety of officers during the search.
Two officers deployed the MX908, swabbing areas of concern—including the bucket handles—which are the most common areas for trace levels of narcotics to be found. Each analysis returned a positive result for methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance that’s highly addictive. The containers were carefully taken apart and numerous extremely small packages of methamphetamine were removed from the waterproofing material, and thereby confiscated. In the words of the NZCS, “the ability of the MX908 to obtain clear and consistent results further encouraged our officers to locate the previously unseen and undetected illicit drugs
Case 2 - Chemical Detection
Identifying Toxic Industrial Chemicals
A freight carrier close to the airport spilled, and an unknown substance that was suspected to be a noxious chemical prompted a response. The NZCS was called in to investigate, however given the proximity to the airport and possible hazards to officers, extreme caution was needed to collect a physical sample. Time was of the essence, and the freight carrier logs were being combed through, but not nearly fast enough to determine the type of substance and remediation protocol.
NZCS officers arrived onsite equipped with the MX908, utilizing the trace vapor capability. A specialist officer donned personal protective equipment and entered the spill site. The MX908 positively identified the presence of dimethylformamide, a solvent for chemical reactions that can impact the eyes, skin, lungs, liver and heart during prolonged exposure. This positive identification enabled officers to properly secure the spill site and implement remediation efforts. The freighter manifest confirmed dimethylformamide, and the spill was contained. The rapid, trace analysis of the MX908 enabled officers to access this information quickly with a high degree of confidence and expedite clean-up.
Case 3 - Explosives Identification
Analyzing Possible Explosives
Bomb threats are always taken seriously, so when a law enforcement agency was contacted by a concerned individual about an abandoned package at a place of worship, the NZCS was called to identify the package. Given the proximity of the venue to public areas, it was ideal to avoid having to evacuate the area, if possible, in order to mitigate undue stress on the public.
The MX908 was again dispatched, this time utilizing the Explosives Hunter Mission Mode, which detects trace levels of military and commercial grade explosives, homemade explosives and relevant precursors. The item was tested with minimal disruption to the package and site, and returned negative results. This gave the agencies involved comfort in mitigating the perceived risk and the ability to downgrade the cordon. This succinct information and inter-agency coordination also enabled officers to clear the scene and move on to their next duties.
Result
Whether using trace identification features for drug traffickers, deploying vapor capabilities to analyze threats or implementing the explosive functionality to assess risk to the public, the NZCS has seen tremendous benefit from 908 Devices' MX908. This multi-mission handheld tool empowers swift response with confidence, helps protect officers and ensures greater public safety and well-being.
Customs administrations have a full array of tools and technologies at their disposal to test material and substances – both in the field and in their labs. These tools all have benefits and limitations. This article introduces an innovation which enables field officers to analyse trace materials left on any items and obtain the specific name of a trace level substance. Not only can they confirm or allay their suspicions rapidly, but they can also proceed to physical inspection with all the precautions needed.
Chemical Analysis: The Difference Between Lab and Field Tools
Mass spectrometry (MS) is the gold standard technology used by all forensic crime labs to analyse chemical substances. This technology provides Customs officers with everything they need: high molecular specificity, reproducibility, accuracy and sensitivity to low parts per billion (PPB). The limitations of this technology, in terms of getting it into the hands of Customs officers, are not insignificant. Traditional mass spectrometry instruments weigh 400 pounds, need an air-conditioned, humidity-controlled room and require a large supply of helium or other carrier gas. The outcome, due to these limitations, is that mass spectroscopy is relegated to the forensic lab. This left room for other, field-based technologies to fill the need for high-fidelity chemical analysis in the field.
This need was filled by two technologies: Ion Mobility Spectroscopy (IMS) and vibrational spectroscopy techniques such as Raman and FTIR. These two capabilities in a single portable system have been, to a large degree, mutually exclusive, with the technologies being separated by their degree of specificity and their level of detection.
IMS is most familiar to the air traveling community when airport security, such as the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA), pulls travellers aside to check their bags for explosives using a trace explosivesdetection device (TEDD). When airport security use a TEDD, they are looking for anything invisible to the human eye to determine whther a traveller has been in proximity to, or has recently handled, explosives. The adoption of IMS in the airport security sphere made it relatively easy for this technology to also be employed in other security arenas, such as Customs and borders. The primary limitation is that IMS does not have the ability to make an exact identification of a substance. Functionally, IMS cannot tell the difference between TNT and DNT (a precursor to TNT), as it classifies everything into families – in this case, explosives.
Vibrational spectroscopy systems are ubiquitous in the public safety space, but are relatively new tools for Customs officers. These are bulk identification technologies, which are very good at analysing a substance by creating a molecular fingerprint that can then be measured against tens of thousands of chemicals in a library of known chemicals. These technologies are commonly employed by law enforcement and hazardous materials response teams to identify puddles, spills and powders that are visible to the human eye, often in large (bulk) quantities. The response provided by these systems is extremely precise, even among closely-related chemicals like TNT and DNT, which are correctly differentiated by vibrational spectroscopy systems every time. The drawbacks of these technologies are twofold: first, they can only identify a substance that is visible to the human eye, and second, the high degree of specificity they provide is outstanding for pure substances, but challenging in the case of mixtures. The smaller the component within a mixture, the more likely it is that vibrational spectroscopy will fail to detect it. Once you get below 10%, it is extremely likely that only the major component will be identified, and any minor components will remain undetected. While there are situations where pure forms of drugs are found by Customs, it is generally the case that officers will encounter mixtures of compounds where controlled substances such as fentanyl, for example, are in the 1% to 3% range.
Mass Spectrometry Goes Into the Field
Mass spectrometry offers two distinct advantages in a single device, in that it has almost the specificity of FTIR and Raman, as well as the trace level analysis capabilities of the IMS systems. Getting it out of the lab and into the field has been made possible by the advent of highpressure mass spectrometry (HPMS). HPMS leverages microscale geometries, high frequency electronics and high efficiency vacuum pumps, all leading to significant reductions in device size and power consumption. Today’s HPMS systems have been scaled down from 181 kg (400 lbs) to 3.6 kg (8 lbs), and run on rechargeable batteries. Microscale mass spectrometry offers trace detection and identification of chemicals at the point of need, in an easy-to-use handheld device.
Regular software updates enable users to identify new substances, such as novel synthetic drugs. In addition, the devices are equipped with machine learning software that can identify more than 2,000 fentanyl analogues in addition to hundreds of other drugs, such as methamphetamines, xylazine and more.
Using a high performance, handheld mass spectrometry device enables Customs officers to deploy this technology right at the point of need; they can quickly and reliably detect materials and determine appropriate action by taking a simple swab. Take the New Zealand Customs Service, for example. Their officers recently positively identified narcotics concealed in containers of waterproofing materials using swabs taken from the handle of the bucket – where traces of narcotics were left behind by the people who packed the containers – and running them through a handheld mass spectrometer with trace analytics. Positive indications for methamphetamine hydrochloride were returned in seconds. For confirmation purposes, the process was replicated with non-suspect items (which returned negative results), at which point officers carefully took apart the containers where multiple small packages of methamphetamine were located.
The entire airport security apparatus is built on an unwritten rule – every bulk substance leaves behind trace evidence. The same principle applies to Customs operations. A smuggler who is packing drugs into hidden compartments in a car, for example, or hiding them in a tub of construction materials, will inadvertently make physical contact with the object being used to transport the drugs. This means that Customs can use HPMS to analyse trace materials left on vehicle steering wheels, door handles, or the handle of a tub. This transferred trace material is rich in information that helps to alert Customs officers, allowing them to increase their operational speed by focusing their attention on where to search and removing some of the guesswork. While the presence of a trace itself is an important factor, no less important is the ability to obtain the specific name of the trace level substance concerned.
In another example, a Customs officer who suspected that a shipment of fire extinguishers were fake took a swab from the outside of one of the extinguishers near the top, where it was likely to have been handled. HPMS quickly identified the presence of methamphetamine.
To confirm, Customs officers used a power saw to cut the extinguishers in half and found them to be packed with methamphetamine. Had the swab revealed that the extinguishers were packed with fentanyl, the officers might have used a different tactic to cut them open, or employed additional layers of personal protective equipment. Identification allows Customs to speed their investigations in other ways too, especially where a technology like HPMS or Raman is used. Customs officers not only encounter different chemical substances, but also have to implement different laws and regulations for controlled substances. Most systems that perform identification provide a chemical abstract number (CAS), which is a unique numerical identifier that is most often tied to regulatory codes regardless of the terminology employed.
The primary goal of all these technologies goes beyond enforcing the law, in that it also extends to protecting Customs officers who operate at ports of entry. Many of these technologies, including HPMS, enable officers to identify exactly what drug may be present before they start cutting into boxes, packages and other containers. If fentanyl is present, officers will need to follow additional precautions to ensure that their exposure, and that of any drug sniffing dogs they may use, is either minimized or eliminated altogether. Identification at trace level combines the best features of two great technologies into a single tool that increases operational trace level combines the best features of two great technologies into a single tool that increases operational speed and enhances safety, while providing explicit answers. There is no doubt that the use of trace detection combined with identification in the field saves precious time and supports Customs officers when and where they need it most.
About the Author
As Senior Director of Business Development, John Johnson oversees the strategic direction and market adoption of the 908 Devices handheld mass spectrometer device, an industry-leading trace identification solution. John has served in many roles over the course of his 30 years in public safety, launching 17 different products in over 61 countries and working with more than 312 public safety organizations. Since 2001, John has focused his efforts on changing mindsets and driving the acceptance of novel technological approaches for identifying explosives, chemical weapons and narcotics by bringing technology used in forensic laboratories into the field, including mass spectrometry, FTIR, Raman, and Rapid DNA. John’s influence in these areas has led to standard industry practices and broad technology adoption, all aimed at improving public safety outcomes.
This article was originally published in WCO News, Issue 3/ 2023, https://mag.wcoomd.org
[post_title] => Identifying Chemicals Precisely Through Trace Analysis is Now a Reality, Opening New Doors for Customs Officers
[post_excerpt] => This article, authored by our own John Johnson, was originally published in WCO News, Issue 3/ 2023. This article introduces MX908 which enables field officers to analyze trace materials left on any items and obtain the specific name of a trace-level substance. Not only can they confirm or allay their suspicions rapidly, but they can also proceed to physical inspection with all the precautions needed.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-published-articles-ff-mx-pa-0004
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-07-02 10:31:13
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-07-02 14:31:13
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=22418
[menu_order] => 247
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[1] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 5574
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2022-02-10 14:06:36
[post_date_gmt] => 2022-02-10 19:06:36
[post_content] =>
Originally published in the online edition of Evidence Technology Magazine, Jan 2022. Reprinted with permission from Wordsmith Publishing.
Evidence Technology Magazine
The magazine dedicated exclusively to the technology of evidence collection, processing, and preservation.
Prioritizing Officer Safety in the Field as Fentanyl Fatalities Rise
The drug world is complicated and scary, but there’s less reason to fear when you have these officer safety measures in place.
Written by Adam Yanner
In order to respond to these threats—both known and unknown— my fellow officers should refresh their protocols, consistently run drills to stay ahead of threats, look to technology as a safeguard, share their findings with fellow officers and the community and constantly stay vigilant.
Early in my career while working at the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, my biggest concern was illegal production of methamphetamine and working tirelessly to shut down meth labs that continued to pop up across the state. As time passed, I joined the Clandestine Laboratory Response Unit where I’m now focused on new, emerging threats—both seen and invisible to the naked eye. The most terrifying of these is fentanyl, the highly fatal substance that can hide on surfaces and in the air in trace amounts.
Approximately three years ago, fentanyl quickly became more popular among manufacturers of illicit drugs, and now it’s everywhere, laced and hidden among so many other types of drugs. Its presence makes our jobs infinitely harder because we have to make sure any substance an officer or the public comes into contact with is properly analyzed so we know whether HAZMAT is needed, if we can safely handle packages to protect officer safety or if we need to evacuate the area.
The prevalence of fentanyl is staggering.
According to the CDC, 130 people in the U.S. die every day from an overdose from fentanyl. That’s likely because fentanyl is 50 times stronger than heroin, and 100 times more potent than morphine, per the DEA.
When officers and other first responders step onto a scene, there’s no telling what individuals, situations, and substances they may encounter. With the increased presence of fentanyl, officers f ind themselves at risk of accidental exposures, which is exactly why establishing officer safety measures is so imperative.
In my work at the NC State Bureau of Investigation, and specifically in the Clandestine Lab Unit, I’ve established a few best practices to ensure the protection of our officers. I think these best practices will be helpful to other labs, investigation teams, and emergency response teams around the country.
1. Establish procedures and protocol You need a strong plan to serve as your foundation, even as the situation evolves. For instance, the first step in analyzing a scene is to determine if there are any suspicious substances present and what form they appear to be in. It may not always be apparent to the naked eye, which is why it’s critical to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) – gloves at minimum.
For example, I recently responded to the scene of a crime where a woman was found unresponsive in a shed-like structure. As EMTs attempted to revive her, we simultaneously conducted a threat analysis of the scene where it was determined there were likely drugs and drug paraphernalia present. After initial testing, we confirmed there was a significant amount of fentanyl located near the deceased, at which point we removed all personnel from the scene to don full protective equipment and determine the best approach to methodically comb the environment for additional safety hazards. We took
these additional precautious because the fentanyl was in powder form and could be easily dispersed and potentially inhaled. We had to approach the scene with extreme caution, even though at first glance it looked fairly safe.
Knowing protocols for various scenarios and training is extremely important for the health and safety of first responders. Especially with the prevalence of fentanyl and how deadly it can be upon inhalation, it’s imperative to take extra care.
2. Leverage technology Narcotic Identification Kits (NIK Kits) used to be the standard, as they are a low-cost screening tool, but accuracy can vary by product. That’s why the first time I used a portable, high-pressure mass spectrometer, like the MX908—a handheld device for trace detection of drugs—I was impressed with its lightning-fast speed and accuracy. Now, it goes with me everywhere.
There are quite a few situations where this tool has come in handy in protecting myself and my fellow officers, including:
— Determining contents of a mystery package on a military base. A soldier returned to his home and found a suspicious package on his doorstep that was labeled “hazardous materials.” We were called in to assess the situation as the threat of explosives on a military base was a concern, but a negative result for explosives through the MX908 allowed us to assess other threats. The package ultimately tested positive for cocaine.
— Analyzing mail at corrections facilities.I recently visited a jail where corrections officers were responsible for sorting through inmates’ mail. This has always been a safety issue, as contraband is regularly sent through the post. When we ran trace swabs from multiple letters and then analyzed them on the MX908, we found many contained synthetic cannabinoids. In addition to the officer safety concern and the peril they face if not wearing proper PPE, there’s also an
With the increased presence of fentanyl, officers find themselves at risk of accidental exposures, which is exactly why establishing officer safety measures is so imperative.
Once you have procedures in place and technology on standby to support, it’s critical to run through drills and have regular meetings that provide more detail, so officers understand the evolving threat landscape.
inmate safety issue.
When you’re assessing what kinds of technology to utilize in your own department, consider the following properties:
•Speed: There’s no time to waste, so how quickly can you assess the situation? For example, the MX908 device can return results of trace drugs in under a minute, enabling our teams to respond quickly and render a scene safe.
•Accuracy and Sensitivity: Ensure you have confidence that you’re dealing with a substance that a technology has accurately detected. You may proceed with a search differently if you find out a substance is cocaine versus fentanyl. Or it may be a mixture of a few different drugs, so you have to make sure your tech is sensitive enough to get an accurate read.
•Reliability: If you’re conducting 15 or more analyses per week on different samples, you need to be sure you can rely on the initial results presented and have zero room for error or false alarms. It’s imperative to get it right consistently.
•Portability: In many scenarios, we have to assess on-site to determine if or how we can proceed with an investigation.
Technology is an effective tool for your arsenal, and one that requires careful consideration and planning. Not all tech is created equal.
3. Conduct regular training Once you have procedures in place and technology on standby to support, it’s critical to run through drills and have regular meetings that provide more detail, so officers understand the evolving threat landscape. Even something as simple as updating and distributing a bulletin with current information about crimes, tactics for fentanyl discovery or other drugs circulating in the community can be a huge benefit.
So many times in my career, I’ve seen departments do a great job of educating their staff, but not share information with other communities that could benefit from their intel. That’s a huge, missed opportunity to protect fellow officers and collaborate on drug busts.
In a similar vein, it’s also important to advise communities of these threats so they can remain constantly vigilant.
Growing threats to consider While fentanyl is driving the headlines and prevalent in many communities, the “next best thing” is right around the corner. Recently we’ve started to see the emergence of Xylazine—an animal tranquilizer—and Eutylone—a stimulant—and higher prevalence of counterfeit pharmaceuticals. In fact, the DEA issued its first public safety alert in six years after seizing more than 9.5 million counterfeit prescription pills— laced with fentanyl—in the first nine months of 2021.
I’ve dedicated my career to keeping drugs and criminals off the street. In order to respond to these threats—both known and unknown—my fellow officers should refresh their protocols, consistently run drills to stay ahead of threats, look to technology as a safeguard, share their findings with fellow officers and the community and constantly stay vigilant. The drug world is complicated and scary, but there’s less reason to fear when you have these officer safety measures in place.
About the Author Adam Tanner is a Special Agent at the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation.
[post_title] => Prioritizing Officer Safety in the Field as Fentanyl Fatalities Rise
[post_excerpt] => Originally published in the online edition of Evidence Technology Magazine, Jan 2022.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => prioritizing-officer-safety-in-the-field-as-fentanyl-fatalities-rise
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-07-03 12:58:40
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-07-03 16:58:40
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=5574
[menu_order] => 248
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[2] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 5302
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2022-02-01 17:52:26
[post_date_gmt] => 2022-02-01 22:52:26
[post_content] =>
From this article in CBNW Magazine, learn about the MX908, a revolutionary handheld mass spectrometer that enables first responders worldwide to safely detect an array of solid, liquid, vapor, and aerosol threats at the point of need. Utilizing high-pressure mass spectrometry (HPMS), it sheds the weight of traditional lab equipment, making gold-standard analytical power field-deployable for detecting everything from traditional chemical warfare agents to emerging threats, like Novichoks and potent synthetic opioids such as fentanyl. The MX908's continuous adaptation, including the development of a predictive fentanyl classifier and the Aero module for aerosol analysis, demonstrates 908 Devices' commitment to equipping responders for an evolving threat landscape.
[post_title] => Multi-Mission Threat Detection in Real Time
[post_excerpt] => This article originally appeared in CBNW Magazine, January 2022.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => multi-mission-threat-detection-in-real-time
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:42:32
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:42:32
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=5302
[menu_order] => 256
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[3] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 28206
[post_author] => 15
[post_date] => 2025-07-03 09:45:22
[post_date_gmt] => 2025-07-03 13:45:22
[post_content] =>
908 Devices is playing a key role in modernizing CBRN defense with its MX908 and suite of FTIR-based tools, delivering lab-quality chemical detection in the field. With over 3,000 MX908 units deployed in 55 countries and 15,000+ trained users, the company is meeting growing global demand for real-time, high-sensitivity identification. Recent deployments to Ukraine underscore its relevance, while innovations like the Team Leader software platform and 24/7 forensic support reflect its commitment to operational agility, data-driven intelligence, and long-term customer partnership.
908 Devices expanded its chemical detection capabilities by acquiring RedWave Technology, combining its high-pressure mass spectrometry (HPMS) expertise with RedWave’s advanced Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) technology. This acquisition creates a more comprehensive solution for detecting and identifying chemicals across various scenarios, from field forensics to hazardous material response. The move also opens new opportunities for cross-selling, shared training, and customer support, positioning 908 Devices as a key player in both public safety and military markets.
[post_title] => Catching a RedWave
[post_excerpt] => Explore how 908 Devices' acquisition of RedWave Technology is revolutionizing chemical detection with advanced mass spectrometry and FTIR solutions, expanding capabilities for public safety and military applications.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => catching-a-redwave
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-22 16:57:35
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-22 20:57:35
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=25881
[menu_order] => 263
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[5] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 27310
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2025-02-21 13:15:55
[post_date_gmt] => 2025-02-21 18:15:55
[post_content] =>
Recent reports from the CDC and DEA reveal a promising decline in opioid overdose deaths for the first time since 2018, alongside a decrease in counterfeit pills containing lethal doses of fentanyl. However, synthetic opioids and emerging substances like xylazine and nitazenes continue to pose significant threats. This article explores the evolving landscape of the opioid epidemic, the challenges posed by potent new drugs, and the need for modern detection technologies. It also highlights collaborative efforts from federal agencies to local communities, emphasizing the importance of education, advanced tools, and public awareness in combating this crisis.
Originally published in the Domestic Preparedness Journal digital edition on January 22, 2025. Reprinted with permission from the Texas Division of Emergency Management and Domestic Preparedness.
[post_title] => The Current State of the Opioid Crisis & Other Emerging Threats
[post_excerpt] => This article examines the evolving opioid crisis, highlighting the need for advanced detection technologies and coordinated prevention efforts to combat synthetic opioid crisis.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => the-current-state-of-the-opioid-crisis-other-emerging-threats
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-23 10:37:04
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-23 14:37:04
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=27310
[menu_order] => 264
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[6] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 814
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2018-01-24 21:28:33
[post_date_gmt] => 2018-01-25 02:28:33
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Trace Detection Tools for Synthetic Opioids
[post_excerpt] => As the synthetic opioid crisis evolves, detection technologies are being enhanced to ensure that synthetic opioids can be detected, categorized, and/or identified.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => trace-tools-synthetic-opioids
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:37:45
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:37:45
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/trace-tools-synthetic-opioids/
[menu_order] => 314
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
)
[post_count] => 7
[current_post] => -1
[before_loop] => 1
[in_the_loop] =>
[post] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 22418
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2023-11-09 15:59:18
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-11-09 20:59:18
[post_content] =>
Introduction
Customs administrations have a full array of tools and technologies at their disposal to test material and substances – both in the field and in their labs. These tools all have benefits and limitations. This article introduces an innovation which enables field officers to analyse trace materials left on any items and obtain the specific name of a trace level substance. Not only can they confirm or allay their suspicions rapidly, but they can also proceed to physical inspection with all the precautions needed.
Chemical Analysis: The Difference Between Lab and Field Tools
Mass spectrometry (MS) is the gold standard technology used by all forensic crime labs to analyse chemical substances. This technology provides Customs officers with everything they need: high molecular specificity, reproducibility, accuracy and sensitivity to low parts per billion (PPB). The limitations of this technology, in terms of getting it into the hands of Customs officers, are not insignificant. Traditional mass spectrometry instruments weigh 400 pounds, need an air-conditioned, humidity-controlled room and require a large supply of helium or other carrier gas. The outcome, due to these limitations, is that mass spectroscopy is relegated to the forensic lab. This left room for other, field-based technologies to fill the need for high-fidelity chemical analysis in the field.
This need was filled by two technologies: Ion Mobility Spectroscopy (IMS) and vibrational spectroscopy techniques such as Raman and FTIR. These two capabilities in a single portable system have been, to a large degree, mutually exclusive, with the technologies being separated by their degree of specificity and their level of detection.
IMS is most familiar to the air traveling community when airport security, such as the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA), pulls travellers aside to check their bags for explosives using a trace explosivesdetection device (TEDD). When airport security use a TEDD, they are looking for anything invisible to the human eye to determine whther a traveller has been in proximity to, or has recently handled, explosives. The adoption of IMS in the airport security sphere made it relatively easy for this technology to also be employed in other security arenas, such as Customs and borders. The primary limitation is that IMS does not have the ability to make an exact identification of a substance. Functionally, IMS cannot tell the difference between TNT and DNT (a precursor to TNT), as it classifies everything into families – in this case, explosives.
Vibrational spectroscopy systems are ubiquitous in the public safety space, but are relatively new tools for Customs officers. These are bulk identification technologies, which are very good at analysing a substance by creating a molecular fingerprint that can then be measured against tens of thousands of chemicals in a library of known chemicals. These technologies are commonly employed by law enforcement and hazardous materials response teams to identify puddles, spills and powders that are visible to the human eye, often in large (bulk) quantities. The response provided by these systems is extremely precise, even among closely-related chemicals like TNT and DNT, which are correctly differentiated by vibrational spectroscopy systems every time. The drawbacks of these technologies are twofold: first, they can only identify a substance that is visible to the human eye, and second, the high degree of specificity they provide is outstanding for pure substances, but challenging in the case of mixtures. The smaller the component within a mixture, the more likely it is that vibrational spectroscopy will fail to detect it. Once you get below 10%, it is extremely likely that only the major component will be identified, and any minor components will remain undetected. While there are situations where pure forms of drugs are found by Customs, it is generally the case that officers will encounter mixtures of compounds where controlled substances such as fentanyl, for example, are in the 1% to 3% range.
Mass Spectrometry Goes Into the Field
Mass spectrometry offers two distinct advantages in a single device, in that it has almost the specificity of FTIR and Raman, as well as the trace level analysis capabilities of the IMS systems. Getting it out of the lab and into the field has been made possible by the advent of highpressure mass spectrometry (HPMS). HPMS leverages microscale geometries, high frequency electronics and high efficiency vacuum pumps, all leading to significant reductions in device size and power consumption. Today’s HPMS systems have been scaled down from 181 kg (400 lbs) to 3.6 kg (8 lbs), and run on rechargeable batteries. Microscale mass spectrometry offers trace detection and identification of chemicals at the point of need, in an easy-to-use handheld device.
Regular software updates enable users to identify new substances, such as novel synthetic drugs. In addition, the devices are equipped with machine learning software that can identify more than 2,000 fentanyl analogues in addition to hundreds of other drugs, such as methamphetamines, xylazine and more.
Using a high performance, handheld mass spectrometry device enables Customs officers to deploy this technology right at the point of need; they can quickly and reliably detect materials and determine appropriate action by taking a simple swab. Take the New Zealand Customs Service, for example. Their officers recently positively identified narcotics concealed in containers of waterproofing materials using swabs taken from the handle of the bucket – where traces of narcotics were left behind by the people who packed the containers – and running them through a handheld mass spectrometer with trace analytics. Positive indications for methamphetamine hydrochloride were returned in seconds. For confirmation purposes, the process was replicated with non-suspect items (which returned negative results), at which point officers carefully took apart the containers where multiple small packages of methamphetamine were located.
The entire airport security apparatus is built on an unwritten rule – every bulk substance leaves behind trace evidence. The same principle applies to Customs operations. A smuggler who is packing drugs into hidden compartments in a car, for example, or hiding them in a tub of construction materials, will inadvertently make physical contact with the object being used to transport the drugs. This means that Customs can use HPMS to analyse trace materials left on vehicle steering wheels, door handles, or the handle of a tub. This transferred trace material is rich in information that helps to alert Customs officers, allowing them to increase their operational speed by focusing their attention on where to search and removing some of the guesswork. While the presence of a trace itself is an important factor, no less important is the ability to obtain the specific name of the trace level substance concerned.
In another example, a Customs officer who suspected that a shipment of fire extinguishers were fake took a swab from the outside of one of the extinguishers near the top, where it was likely to have been handled. HPMS quickly identified the presence of methamphetamine.
To confirm, Customs officers used a power saw to cut the extinguishers in half and found them to be packed with methamphetamine. Had the swab revealed that the extinguishers were packed with fentanyl, the officers might have used a different tactic to cut them open, or employed additional layers of personal protective equipment. Identification allows Customs to speed their investigations in other ways too, especially where a technology like HPMS or Raman is used. Customs officers not only encounter different chemical substances, but also have to implement different laws and regulations for controlled substances. Most systems that perform identification provide a chemical abstract number (CAS), which is a unique numerical identifier that is most often tied to regulatory codes regardless of the terminology employed.
The primary goal of all these technologies goes beyond enforcing the law, in that it also extends to protecting Customs officers who operate at ports of entry. Many of these technologies, including HPMS, enable officers to identify exactly what drug may be present before they start cutting into boxes, packages and other containers. If fentanyl is present, officers will need to follow additional precautions to ensure that their exposure, and that of any drug sniffing dogs they may use, is either minimized or eliminated altogether. Identification at trace level combines the best features of two great technologies into a single tool that increases operational trace level combines the best features of two great technologies into a single tool that increases operational speed and enhances safety, while providing explicit answers. There is no doubt that the use of trace detection combined with identification in the field saves precious time and supports Customs officers when and where they need it most.
About the Author
As Senior Director of Business Development, John Johnson oversees the strategic direction and market adoption of the 908 Devices handheld mass spectrometer device, an industry-leading trace identification solution. John has served in many roles over the course of his 30 years in public safety, launching 17 different products in over 61 countries and working with more than 312 public safety organizations. Since 2001, John has focused his efforts on changing mindsets and driving the acceptance of novel technological approaches for identifying explosives, chemical weapons and narcotics by bringing technology used in forensic laboratories into the field, including mass spectrometry, FTIR, Raman, and Rapid DNA. John’s influence in these areas has led to standard industry practices and broad technology adoption, all aimed at improving public safety outcomes.
This article was originally published in WCO News, Issue 3/ 2023, https://mag.wcoomd.org
[post_title] => Identifying Chemicals Precisely Through Trace Analysis is Now a Reality, Opening New Doors for Customs Officers
[post_excerpt] => This article, authored by our own John Johnson, was originally published in WCO News, Issue 3/ 2023. This article introduces MX908 which enables field officers to analyze trace materials left on any items and obtain the specific name of a trace-level substance. Not only can they confirm or allay their suspicions rapidly, but they can also proceed to physical inspection with all the precautions needed.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-published-articles-ff-mx-pa-0004
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-07-02 10:31:13
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-07-02 14:31:13
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=22418
[menu_order] => 247
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[comment_count] => 0
[current_comment] => -1
[found_posts] => 7
[max_num_pages] => 0
[max_num_comment_pages] => 0
[is_single] =>
[is_preview] =>
[is_page] =>
[is_archive] => 1
[is_date] =>
[is_year] =>
[is_month] =>
[is_day] =>
[is_time] =>
[is_author] =>
[is_category] =>
[is_tag] =>
[is_tax] => 1
[is_search] =>
[is_feed] =>
[is_comment_feed] =>
[is_trackback] =>
[is_home] =>
[is_privacy_policy] =>
[is_404] =>
[is_embed] =>
[is_paged] =>
[is_admin] =>
[is_attachment] =>
[is_singular] =>
[is_robots] =>
[is_favicon] =>
[is_posts_page] =>
[is_post_type_archive] => 1
[query_vars_hash:WP_Query:private] => 0d8aba127e084e4f80ce9293f83729ee
[query_vars_changed:WP_Query:private] => 1
[thumbnails_cached] =>
[allow_query_attachment_by_filename:protected] =>
[stopwords:WP_Query:private] =>
[compat_fields:WP_Query:private] => Array
(
[0] => query_vars_hash
[1] => query_vars_changed
)
[compat_methods:WP_Query:private] => Array
(
[0] => init_query_flags
[1] => parse_tax_query
)
[query_cache_key:WP_Query:private] => wp_query:143fb8b2fd704331894a1c71a5657f4c:0.98851800 17515987880.02495200 1751598789
)
Chemical warfare agents (CWAs) have been a persistent concern in global security, posing a grave threat to areas in conflict. Recent years have witnessed disturbing incidents of their use across various parts of the world.
The emergence of pharmaceutical-based agents (PBAs) adds to this threat. Originally designed for medical purposes, drugs like carfentanil have become a cause for concern due to their toxicity and extreme ease of manufacturing and procurement. The idea of weaponizing drugs like fentanyl represents a dangerous escalation in the ongoing battle against illicit substances. It poses significant challenges to militaries and first responders as traditional security measures may not be sufficient to counteract this new threat.
Filling The Gap In Area Monitoring
MX908 is deployed by militaries and first responders around the world for detection and identification of chemical threats.
With the addition of MX908 Beacon™, operators can augment their area monitoring capability to provide real-time identification of aerosol and vapor chemical warfare agents (CWAs) and pharmaceutical based agents (PBAs) for extended durations, adding a layer of protection for special events, hazmat response and critical infrastructure. A remote communications package allows users to operate and monitor multiple Beacons from anywhere in the world while sharing realtime data with their team.
Area Monitoring For:
Hazmat response
Key events
Military operations
Critical infrastructure
Exclusion zone monitoring
Decontamination monitoring
VIP Protection
Clandestine lab operations
CBRN Vehicles
Threat Categories:
A-series agents (Novichoks)
V-series agents
G-series agents
HD Mustard
Pharmaceutical-based agents
Lachrymatory agents
Beacon Advantages:
Only area monitor for vapor and aerosol identification
Remote monitoring anywhere in the world
Compatible with any MX908 device
Discreet, environmentally hardened case
Trace identification (low-mid ppb/ng) of threats
Extended operation and standby time
Easy data sharing capability
Specifications
Size
22 x 17.9 x 10.4 in
Weight
<45lbs (20.4 kg)
Power
Imbedded Li Ion batteries or shore power for 8+ hours of continuous operations
Communications
User-provided cellular device/WiFi hotspot to secure web page
Sample Introduction
Continuous gas/vapor analysis with periodic aerosol analysis via thermal desorption
Data Export
Data export from secure web server
Remote Management
- Monitor multiple sessions in a single portal. Start/stop scans, monitor results, share data. - Alerts are sent discreetly to user connected computer or mobile devices
The MX908 Beacon Portal provides real-time results and allows the user to remotely control multiple units simultaneously.
The MX908 Beacon is a remote area monitoring solution that provides real-time identification of aerosol and vapor chemical warfare agents (CWAs) and pharmaceutical based agents (PBAs) for extended durations.
MX908® leverages high-pressure mass spectrometry™ (HPMS) to deliver dramatically enhanced sensitivity and broader threat category coverage. This second-generation tool increases mission support with unmatched flexibility and trace detection power for elite responders in chemical, explosive, drug and priority hazmat scenarios.
Reliable Field Analysis
With the enhanced selectivity of HPMS, users can conduct field analysis of unknown substances at trace levels to identify drugs while keeping officers safe. The MX908 allows operators to rapidly assess threat levels, establish reliable probable cause, and prioritize investigatory resources accordingly, all while reducing operator exposure.
Missions:
Drug Interdictions and Investigations
Clandestine Laboratory Exploitation
EOD
Border Security
HazMat Response
Checkpoint Security
Postal Security
Event Security
Threat Categories:
Fentanyls/Synthetic Opioids
Synthetic Cannabinoids
Synthetic Cathinones
Traditional drugs such as:
Cocaine
Heroin
Meth
MDMA, and more
Precursors
Operational Strengths:
Nanogram level detection identifies threats while keeping officers safe
Establish probable cause with trace evidence
24/7 Reachback support for data analysis by forensic chemists
Attributes:
Fast start up
Results in <45s
Trace detection (low - mid nanograms)
Powered by mass spectrometry
Heightened sensitivity and selectivity
Unmistakable audio and visual alerts
Simple interface
Low maintenance
MX908 Mission Modes enhance performance for specific mission objectives.
Drug Hunter is a mission mode for the detection of drugs such as: fentanyl and fentanyl analogs, along with other high priority controlled substances.
Drug Hunter unlocks detection capabilities for more than 2000 fentanyl variants.
Fentanyl Analog Classifier future-proofs your MX908 against the ever-changing fentanyl analog landscape. The MX908 is the only device capable of classifying fentanyl analogs without a library-based approach allowing users to stay ahead of new and emerging fentanyl analogs.
Specifications
Size:
29.8 x 21.6 x 12.2 cm (11.8 x 8.5 x 4.8 in)
Power:
Replaceable, hot swappable batteries with >3 hours of continuous operation (2 spare batteries included)
Display:
Adjustable ultra-bright backlit display for direct sunlight and nighttime conditions, 12.7 cm (5 in)
Weight:
≤4.3 kg (9.5 lbs); varies based on module, accessories
Rapid trace-to-bulk solid/liquid analysis via thermal desorption swabs; continuous gas/vapor analysis with periodic aerosol analysis via thermal desorption
Alarm Type:
Audio and visual for both detection and identification
Software:
Embedded, self-contained, on-board analytics
Data Export:
Export wirelessly via Bluetooth connection with any compatible iOS or Android device Export manually using included USB drive
Decontamination:
IP-54 rated, chemical resistant housing spray/splash and wipe down
Operating Temperature:
0°–40° C (32°-110° F)
Storage Temperature:
-20°–60° C (-4°-140° F)
Ruggedness:
MIL-STD-810G
MX908 is equipped with modular accessories for ease of transition between solid, liquid, vapor, and aerosol sample types.
MX908 is rugged and meets the requirements for use in harsh environments.
The enhanced selectivity of MX908 allows for even broader threat category coverage.
[post_title] => MX908 Specifications for Priority Drugs
[post_excerpt] => With the enhanced selectivity of HPMS, users can conduct field analysis of unknown substances at trace levels to generate actionable intelligence in real time.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => priority-drug-spec-sheet
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-07-02 10:42:52
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-07-02 14:42:52
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/priority-drug-spec-sheet/
[menu_order] => 309
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[2] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 7467
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2023-01-06 15:31:05
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-01-06 20:31:05
[post_content] =>
MULTI-THREAT DETECTION
MX908® leverages high-pressure mass spectrometry™ (HPMS) to deliver dramatically enhanced sensitivity and broader threat category coverage. It provides identification across a broad range of drugs such as synthetic opioids, phenethylamines, cathinones, and cannabinoids.
RELIABLE TRACE ANALYSIS
MX908 provides trace identification (nanogram/invisible level) of many drugs commonly smuggled into corrections facilities. The ability to detect and identify invisible amounts of drugs allows the MX908 to defeat common smuggling tactics like spraying substances onto paper and mail. Accurate and rapid trace level identification also reduces exposure risk to officers and inmates by enabling exterior sampling of packages and ultimately keeping illicit drugs out of the facility.
MISSIONS:
Mail screening
Unknown powder identification
Overdose response
THREAT CATEGORIES:
Fentanyls/synthetic opioids
Phenethylamines
Cathinones
Cannabinoids
CWAs, Explosives, TICs, Precursors
MX908 ADVANTAGES:
Trace identification of many drugs including: fentanyl, fentanyl analogs, methamphetamine, synthetic cathinones, and synthetic cannabinoids
MX908 provides excellent target coverage of common cannabinoids, cathinones, and phenethylamines often seized in corrections facilities
Mail screening for trace identification of drugs sprayed onto paper or delivered by mail
Increased officer safety by enabling non-intrusive sampling
Accurate and rapid results allow officers to act quickly and with confidence
Reachback analysis of mass spectra
MX908 Mission Modes enhance performance for specific mission objectives.
Drug Hunter is a mission mode for the detection of drugs such as: fentanyl and fentanyl-analogs, along with other high priority controlled substances
Drug Hunter unlocks detection capabilities for more than 2000 fentanyl variants.
This Mission Mode future-proofs your MX908 against the ever-changing Fentanyl analog landscape with a novel classification algorithm that sets MX908 apart from any library-based techniques.
SPECIFICATIONS
Size:
29.8 x 21.6 x 12.2 cm (11.8 x 8.5 x 4.8 in)
Power:
Replaceable, hot swappable batteries with >3 hours of continuous operation (2 spare batteries included)
Display:
Adjustable ultra-bright backlit display for direct sunlight and nighttime conditions, 12.7 cm (5 in)
Weight:
≤4.3 kg (9.5 lbs); varies based on module, accessories
MX908® leverages high-pressure mass spectrometry™ (HPMS) to deliver dramatically enhanced sensitivity for identification of chemical warfare agents (CWAs), toxic industrial chemicals (TICs) and more. In addition to traditional agents and threat materials, MX908 is a field-deployable tool that can identify A-series CWAs, also known as fourth generation agents (FGAs) or Novichoks, at trace levels.
Closing the Capability Gap
As the threat landscape continues to evolve, responders must adapt to ensure they’re equipped to address threats as they arise. Whether identifying military grade warfare agent, mitigating an active incident, or validating decontamination, responders need the selectivity to distinguish between threats and the sensitivity for high fidelity trace detection. With MX908, elite federal, military and civilian responders have the quick, confident intelligence they need to ensure the safety of their team and the public.
With the addition of MX908 Beacon™, operators can provide real-time, remote identification of aerosol and vapor for extended durations, adding a layer of protection for special events, hazmat response and critical infrastructure.Threat Categories:
Missions:
Area Monitoring
Site Exploitation
Border Security
HazMat Response
Checkpoint Security
Postal Security
Event Security
Threat Categories:
CWAs (including Novichoks)
Fentanyls/Opioids
Emerging threats
Explosives
TIC/TIM
Precursors
Trace Level Sampling Modes:
Vapors
Aerosols
Solids and liquids
Operational Strengths:
MX908 Beacon accessory for remote area monitoring
Fast start up
Rapid analysis
Trace detection (low - mid ppb)
Powered by mass spectrometry
Heightened sensitivity and selectivity
Unmistakable audio and visual alerts
Simple interface
Low maintenance
Mission Modes Use Specialized Software To Optimize Performance For Specific Mission Objectives
CW Hunter is a mission mode for the detection of priority chemical warfare agents, including A-series (Novichoks). Delivers real-time vapor quantification.
Drug Hunter is a mission mode for the detection of drugs such as: fentanyl and fentanyl-analogs, along with other high priority drugs-of-abuse.
Explosives Hunter is a mission mode for the detection of priority threats from military and commercial grade explosives, to homemade energetics and relevant precursors.
Specifications
Size:
29.8 x 21.6 x 12.2 cm (11.8 x 8.5 x 4.8 in)
Power:
Replaceable, hot swappable batteries with >3 hours of continuous operation (2 spare batteries included)
Display:
Adjustable ultra-bright backlit display for direct sunlight and nighttime conditions, 12.7 cm (5 in)
Weight:
≤4.3 kg (9.5 lbs); varies based on module, accessories
Rapid trace-to-bulk solid/liquid analysis via thermal desorption swabs; continuous gas/vapor analysis with periodic aerosol analysis via thermal desorption
Alarm Type:
Audio and visual for both detection and identification
Software:
Embedded, self-contained, on-board analytics
Data Export:
Export wirelessly via Bluetooth connection with any compatible iOS or Android device Export manually using included USB drive
Decontamination:
IP-54 rated, chemical resistant housing spray/splash and wipe down
Operating Temperature:
0°–40° C (32°-110° F)
Storage Temperature:
-20°–60° C (-4°-140° F)
Ruggedness:
MIL-STD-810G
MX908 is rugged and meets the requirements for use in harsh environments.
MX908 Beacon accessory for remote area monitoring
The enhanced selectivity of MX908 allows for even broader threat category coverage.
An obvious user interface guides users through each mission mode.
[post_title] => MX908 Specifications for Hazmat
[post_excerpt] => With MX908, elite federal, military and civilian responders have the quick, confident intelligence they need to ensure the safety of their team and the public.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-hazmat-spec-sheet
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-07-02 10:49:02
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-07-02 14:49:02
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/mx908-hazmat-spec-sheet/
[menu_order] => 316
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[4] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 779
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2017-09-01 14:40:59
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-01 18:40:59
[post_content] =>
All Hazard Threat Detection
MX908® leverages high-pressure mass spectrometry™ (HPMS) to deliver dramatically enhanced sensitivity and broader threat category coverage. This second-generation tool increases mission support with unmatched flexibility and trace detection power for elite responders in chemical, explosive, drug and priority hazmat scenarios. MX908 lightens the overall technology burden by displacing other less selective technologies from the response toolkit.
Lightening The Load
With the enhanced proficiency of HPMS, users can lighten the technology load of tools required downrange. With sensitivity levels comparable to ion mobility mass spectrometry (IMS) and significantly enhanced selectivity, MX908 can detect trace quantities (low - mid ppb) of priority threats amongst the myriad of interferents that plague other less selective technologies.
Missions:
Site Exploitation
EOD
Border Security
HazMat Response
Checkpoint Security
Postal Security
Event Security
Threat Categories:
CWA
Fentanyls/Opioids
Emerging threats
Explosives
TIC/TIM
Precursors
Attributes:
Fast start up
Rapid analysis
Trace detection (low - mid ppb)
Powered by mass spectrometry
Heightened sensitivity and selectivity
Unmistakable audio and visual alerts
Simple interface
Low maintenance
Operational Strengths:
Trace-level vapors, aerosols, solids, and liquids
Mission Modes Use Specialized Software To Optimize Performance For Specific Mission Objectives
CW Hunter is a mission mode for the detection of priority chemical warfare agents, including A-series (Novichoks). Delivers real-time vapor quantification.
Drug Hunter is a mission mode for the detection of drugs such as: fentanyl and fentanyl-analogs, along with other high priority drugs-of-abuse.
Explosives Hunter is a mission mode for the detection of priority threats from military and commercial grade explosives, to homemade energetics and relevant precursors.
Specifications
Size:
29.8 x 21.6 x 12.2 cm (11.8 x 8.5 x 4.8 in)
Power:
Replaceable, hot swappable batteries with >3 hours of continuous operation (2 spare batteries included)
Display:
Adjustable ultra-bright backlit display for direct sunlight and nighttime conditions, 12.7 cm (5 in)
Weight:
≤4.3 kg (9.5 lbs); varies based on module, accessories
Chemical warfare agents (CWAs) have been a persistent concern in global security, posing a grave threat to areas in conflict. Recent years have witnessed disturbing incidents of their use across various parts of the world.
The emergence of pharmaceutical-based agents (PBAs) adds to this threat. Originally designed for medical purposes, drugs like carfentanil have become a cause for concern due to their toxicity and extreme ease of manufacturing and procurement. The idea of weaponizing drugs like fentanyl represents a dangerous escalation in the ongoing battle against illicit substances. It poses significant challenges to militaries and first responders as traditional security measures may not be sufficient to counteract this new threat.
Filling The Gap In Area Monitoring
MX908 is deployed by militaries and first responders around the world for detection and identification of chemical threats.
With the addition of MX908 Beacon™, operators can augment their area monitoring capability to provide real-time identification of aerosol and vapor chemical warfare agents (CWAs) and pharmaceutical based agents (PBAs) for extended durations, adding a layer of protection for special events, hazmat response and critical infrastructure. A remote communications package allows users to operate and monitor multiple Beacons from anywhere in the world while sharing realtime data with their team.
Area Monitoring For:
Hazmat response
Key events
Military operations
Critical infrastructure
Exclusion zone monitoring
Decontamination monitoring
VIP Protection
Clandestine lab operations
CBRN Vehicles
Threat Categories:
A-series agents (Novichoks)
V-series agents
G-series agents
HD Mustard
Pharmaceutical-based agents
Lachrymatory agents
Beacon Advantages:
Only area monitor for vapor and aerosol identification
Remote monitoring anywhere in the world
Compatible with any MX908 device
Discreet, environmentally hardened case
Trace identification (low-mid ppb/ng) of threats
Extended operation and standby time
Easy data sharing capability
Specifications
Size
22 x 17.9 x 10.4 in
Weight
<45lbs (20.4 kg)
Power
Imbedded Li Ion batteries or shore power for 8+ hours of continuous operations
Communications
User-provided cellular device/WiFi hotspot to secure web page
Sample Introduction
Continuous gas/vapor analysis with periodic aerosol analysis via thermal desorption
Data Export
Data export from secure web server
Remote Management
- Monitor multiple sessions in a single portal. Start/stop scans, monitor results, share data. - Alerts are sent discreetly to user connected computer or mobile devices
The MX908 Beacon Portal provides real-time results and allows the user to remotely control multiple units simultaneously.
The MX908 Beacon is a remote area monitoring solution that provides real-time identification of aerosol and vapor chemical warfare agents (CWAs) and pharmaceutical based agents (PBAs) for extended durations.
The MX908™ handheld high-pressure mass spectrometer is a cutting-edge device designed for effective threat detection across a wide range of target materials, including explosives, chemical warfare agents (CWAs), and drugs of abuse. It features a fast-switching dual-polarity ionization source and swappable front-end modules, enabling both real-time vapor monitoring at low ppb levels and thermal desorption of solid and liquid samples at nanogram levels. The instrument operates at higher pressures, eliminating the need for bulky, power-hungry vacuum pumps, and provides rapid sample-to-result times of about 30 seconds. Specialized mission modes, such as CW Hunter and Drug Hunter, optimize the device for detecting specific threats with high sensitivity and accuracy. The MX908 offers trace detection in both vapor and thermal desorption modes, with limits of detection in the low ppb and nanogram ranges, making it a versatile and efficient tool for real-time threat analysis.
The document discusses the development of a handheld high-pressure mass spectrometry (HPMS) platform, specifically the MX908, designed for use in field applications by military, law enforcement, and first responders. The device uses a fast-switching dual-polarity APCI (Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization) source, enabling it to perform trace detection in both vapor and thermal desorption modes, with detection limits down to parts-per-billion (ppbv) in vapor mode and nanogram levels on swabs. The MX908 can analyze a wide range of threats, including explosives, narcotics, chemical warfare agents, and relevant precursors, all from a single sample. Its ability to operate at higher pressures (up to 10 Torr) eliminates the need for costly and bulky vacuum pumps, making it more portable and power-efficient. The system is capable of rapid analysis with a broad mass range (m/z ~50-550) and can detect multiple targets without switching samples or polarities. Key applications include the detection of drugs, explosives like PETN and RDX, and toxic chemicals such as sarin and VX, with further refinement and field testing underway.
This work explores the use of a handheld mass spectrometer for detecting fentanyl and its analogs, with a focus on optimizing in-source CID (collision-induced dissociation) for high sensitivity and selectivity, even in the presence of cutting agents. The system employs a low-pressure ion trap, dual-polarity corona discharge ionization, and thermal desorption for real-time vapor analysis, enabling detection of low-volatility substances like opioids. The study demonstrates that the system provides nanogram sensitivity, strong selectivity, and the ability to identify unknown fentanyl analogs through predictive fragmentation patterns. Additionally, the system showed superior performance compared to traditional optical methods in the analysis of contaminated fentanyl samples, achieving detection limits in the sub-100 ng range. The algorithm used in the mass spectrometer effectively identifies a wide range of fentanyl analogs based on mass spectral dissociation patterns. Overall, the handheld device proves to be a versatile tool for opioid detection and other applications.
[post_title] => Analysis of Fentanyl and Its Analogs with a Handheld API Mass Spectrometer and In-Source CID
[post_excerpt] => In this work we report on the results of optimization of an insource CID sequence and subsequent characterization of the handheld API mass spectrometer/algorithm performance for the analysis of both neat and heavily cut samples containing various fentanyl analogs.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-tech-note-3-0-analysis-of-fentanyl-and-its-analogs-with-a-handheld-api-mass-spectrometer-and-in-source-cid
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:23:09
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:23:09
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/mx908-tech-note-3-0-analysis-of-fentanyl-and-its-analogs-with-a-handheld-api-mass-spectrometer-and-in-source-cid/
[menu_order] => 385
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[3] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 1192
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2021-05-07 19:26:49
[post_date_gmt] => 2021-05-07 23:26:49
[post_content] =>
The Aero attachment for the MX908 is designed for aerosol detection and identification, including chemical warfare agents and fentanyl analogs, by analyzing both vapor-phase and aerosolized particles. It captures particulate matter on a screen, which is then flash-heated for analysis by a miniaturized mass spectrometer, similar to thermal desorption techniques. The system is capable of trapping more than 80% of particles larger than 2.5 microns in diameter, ensuring effective detection of aerosols in dynamic, real-world environments. Testing under controlled and field conditions, including exposure to hazardous materials like Novichok nerve agents and fentanyl, demonstrated the Aero’s ability to detect aerosols at concentrations as low as 0.01 mg/m3. This makes the Aero a crucial tool for detecting a wide range of aerosolized threats, with minimal down-time and no need for user intervention.
[post_title] => Aerosol Detection and Identification with MX908
[post_excerpt] => Read this tech note full of field test data to understand how the MX908 with Aero works when detecting aerosolized chemicals.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-tech-note_aerosol-detection-and-identification-with-mx908
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:22:14
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:22:14
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/mx908_tech-note_aerosol-detection-and-identification-with-mx908/
[menu_order] => 475
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
)
[post_count] => 4
[current_post] => -1
[before_loop] => 1
[in_the_loop] =>
[post] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 823
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2018-02-05 18:31:28
[post_date_gmt] => 2018-02-05 23:31:28
[post_content] =>
The MX908™ handheld high-pressure mass spectrometer is a cutting-edge device designed for effective threat detection across a wide range of target materials, including explosives, chemical warfare agents (CWAs), and drugs of abuse. It features a fast-switching dual-polarity ionization source and swappable front-end modules, enabling both real-time vapor monitoring at low ppb levels and thermal desorption of solid and liquid samples at nanogram levels. The instrument operates at higher pressures, eliminating the need for bulky, power-hungry vacuum pumps, and provides rapid sample-to-result times of about 30 seconds. Specialized mission modes, such as CW Hunter and Drug Hunter, optimize the device for detecting specific threats with high sensitivity and accuracy. The MX908 offers trace detection in both vapor and thermal desorption modes, with limits of detection in the low ppb and nanogram ranges, making it a versatile and efficient tool for real-time threat analysis.
The MX908 with Aero represents a significant advancement in chemical threat detection, specifically addressing the critical gap in identifying aerosolized dangers like Chemical Warfare Agents (CWAs) and Pharmaceutical-based Agents (PBAs). Traditional chemical detection solutions often struggle with the unique challenges posed by airborne threats; their diffuse nature, rapid dispersion, and often low concentrations make them difficult to pinpoint and analyze effectively. Aero's innovative technology overcomes these limitations by enhancing the MX908's capabilities, allowing operators to quickly and accurately detect and identify these nebulized substances. This is crucial for protecting first responders, military personnel, and the public, as timely and precise identification of aerosolized Chemical Warfare Agents and Pharmaceutical-based Agents can inform immediate mitigation strategies, minimize exposure, and potentially save lives in scenarios ranging from terrorist attacks to accidental releases.
[post_title] => MX908 with Aero
[post_excerpt] => MX908 with Aero enables operators to detect and identify aerosolized threats, such as Chemical Warfare Agents (CWAs) and Pharmaceutical-based Agents (PBAs), which represent a critical gap in existing chemical detection solutions.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-video_mx908-aero-video_meal
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:44:51
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:44:51
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/mx908_-video_mx908-aero-video_meal/
[menu_order] => 396
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
)
[post_count] => 15
[current_post] => -1
[before_loop] => 1
[in_the_loop] =>
[post] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 21468
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2023-08-30 15:29:03
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-08-30 19:29:03
[post_content] =>
908 Devices was featured on The HazMat Guys Podcast to discuss how our technology has evolved along with the need to provide broad coverage of chemical warfare and pharmaceutical based agents. This podcast covers everything from our handheld MX908 with Aero module to the development of the new MX908 Beacon that provides remote area monitoring of aerosol and vapor chemical threats.
[post_title] => The New MX908 Beacon for Area Monitoring
[post_excerpt] => We recently caught up with The HazMat Guys Podcast to discuss what's new from 908 Devices for area monitoring missions.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => podcast-the-new-mx908-beacon-for-area-monitoring
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:11:42
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:11:42
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=22392
[menu_order] => 9
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[1] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 24475
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2024-05-13 13:01:09
[post_date_gmt] => 2024-05-13 17:01:09
[post_content] =>
About this Webinar
While the US is facing a severe synthetic opioid crisis, law enforcement is facing a trace identification problem. The outcome is a significant increase in overdose deaths related to fentanyl substances and their analogs. Transnational criminal organizations are exploiting the situation, especially in High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA), by introducing new synthetic psychoactive substances for substantial profits. Advanced trace-level identification technology is essential to combat this growing problem, as it surpasses mere detection capabilities.
Our panel of speakers describes how advanced trace-level identification technologies go beyond mere detection. The latest technology arms law enforcement and public safety agencies with new capabilities that can help disrupt and dismantle criminal organizations responsible for killing hundreds of thousands of Americans.
Key Webinar Takeaways:
Learn about the latest advancements in trace-level identification technologies
Explore strategies for implementing these technologies through HIDTAs and beyond
Who Should Watch?
HIDTA personnel
Partner agency law enforcement professionals
Public health officials
Policymakers
Forensic scientists
Substance abuse and mental health service providers
Discover how field chemical analysis is being revolutionized by the handheld and portable technologies from 908 Devices. XplorIR, ProtectIR, ThreatID, and MX908 will be highlighted in this webinar to demonstrate their quick, non-destructive chemical detection and analysis capabilities.
Key Webinar Takeaways:
XplorIR: Quick identification and measurement of vapors and gases utilizing FTIR technology
ProtectIR: Rugged design for trustworthy chemical identification of liquids and large solids
ThreatID: Complete identification for liquids, gasses, and solids
MX908: High-performance, trace-level chemical identification that gives first responders real-time information
[post_title] => Empowering Field Operations: Integrated Chemical Analysis
[post_excerpt] => This webinar is designed for emergency response teams, defense personnel, and security professionals needing quick, accurate integrated chemical analysis.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => empowering-field-operations-integrated-chemical-analysis
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-17 12:06:59
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-17 16:06:59
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=25649
[menu_order] => 47
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[3] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 26356
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2024-11-15 14:18:18
[post_date_gmt] => 2024-11-15 19:18:18
[post_content] =>
About this Webinar
This webinar introduces a cutting-edge solution for substance detection and identification in correctional facilities, combining the advanced capabilities of MX908 and MailSecur® technologies. As illicit substances continue to threaten the safety and security of these environments, the integration of these tools provides a powerful, comprehensive approach for law enforcement and corrections professionals.
RaySecur’s innovative terahertz (T-ray) imaging technology enables non-invasive detection of concealed substances within sealed mail and personal items, offering real-time visualization of potential threats. Complementing this capability, the MX908 employs high-pressure mass spectrometry (HPMS) for precise substance identification. Together, these technologies deliver a seamless process: identifying, localizing, and accurately characterizing threats to enable rapid response and effective containment.
This integrated system addresses critical challenges in correctional facilities by improving the speed and accuracy of substance detection and identification. It enhances safety protocols, reduces security risks, and streamlines operations, resulting in a safer environment for staff and inmates while optimizing resources and efficiency.
Designed for corrections officers, facility administrators, and law enforcement professionals, this webinar provides an in-depth exploration of the MX908-MailSecur system. Participants will gain valuable insights into its technical capabilities, operational workflows, and the strategic benefits of adopting this innovative solution to strengthen substance control measures.
[post_title] => Improving Substance Detection and Identification in Correctional Facilities
[post_excerpt] => Watch this webinar to learn more about MX908 for Corrections Screening and pairing with RaySecur's MailSecur system for robust narcotics identification in correctional facilities.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => improving-substance-detection-and-identification-in-correctional-facilities
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:27:22
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:27:22
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=26356
[menu_order] => 48
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[4] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 26616
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2024-12-12 09:19:40
[post_date_gmt] => 2024-12-12 14:19:40
[post_content] =>
About this Webinar
Join us for an insightful webinar featuring Phil Ambrose as he explores how advanced technologies like Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and High Pressure Mass Spectrometry (HPMS) can simplify hazmat response operations. Moderated by Dr. Mark Norman, this discussion will cover everything from routine calls, such as carbon monoxide and odor detection, to more complex incidents involving multiple chemical substances.
Through real-world examples, you’ll learn how combining basic gas detectors with advanced tools can enhance your hazmat response capabilities. Whether you’re part of a first due engine company using essential gas detection equipment or a dedicated hazmat team with extensive resources, this session will demonstrate how integrating FTIR and HPMS into your protocols can accelerate decision-making and improve outcomes. Both recon operators and incident commanders will gain valuable insights into how these technologies can boost safety for responders, the public, and property during chemical incidents.
[post_title] => Simplifying Everyday Hazmat Calls with Advanced Technology
[post_excerpt] => From routine calls such as carbon monoxide and odor detection, to more complex incidents involving multiple chemical substances learn how hazmat response tools like XplorIR and MX908 allow responders to work smarter.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => simplifying-everyday-hazmat-calls-with-advanced-technology
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-27 11:35:16
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-27 15:35:16
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=26616
[menu_order] => 49
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[5] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 27222
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2025-01-31 09:59:32
[post_date_gmt] => 2025-01-31 14:59:32
[post_content] =>
About this Webinar
This webinar discusses the growing threat of nitazenes in the opioid crisis and how the MX908 can play a crucial role in detecting and addressing this emerging danger. It draws comparisons to the early fentanyl crisis, emphasizing the importance of proactive detection. The session focuses on optimizing MX908’s potential to aid law enforcement, forensic professionals, and medical examiners in analyzing highly toxic synthetic opioids. Real-world cases are examined to highlight the need for updated testing protocols, equipping professionals with the tools and strategies to stay ahead in controlled substance detection.
By Watching This Webinar, You Will Learn:
The latest insights on synthetic opioids, including fentanyl analogs, nitazenes, and dangerous adulterants like xylazine.
How nitazenes pose an emerging threat and their similarities to the early fentanyl crisis.
The role of the MX908 in detecting and analyzing emerging drug threats.
Best practices for using the MX908 in law enforcement, forensic labs, and medical examinations.
Real-world case studies highlighting the need for updated testing protocols and improved substance detection strategies.
[post_title] => Unmasking Nitazenes: Novel Substances Joining Fentanyl in the Synthetic Opioid Landscape
[post_excerpt] => This webinar explores the emerging threat of nitazenes, their parallels to the fentanyl crisis, and how the MX908 enhances detection and analysis for law enforcement, forensic professionals, and medical examiners.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => unmasking-nitazenes-novel-substances-joining-fentanyl-in-the-synthetic-opioid-landscape
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-27 10:47:09
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-27 14:47:09
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=27222
[menu_order] => 50
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[6] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 27459
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2025-03-20 17:16:01
[post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-20 21:16:01
[post_content] =>
About this Webinar
With increasing competition for public safety grants, it’s crucial to stay informed and strategic. Listen to our panel experts for an in-depth exploration of 2025 federal grant opportunities, key policy updates, and effective funding strategies. Designed for grant managers, financial officers, and agency leaders, this webinar will equip you with the tools to maximize funding and navigate the evolving federal grant process.
[post_title] => Unlocking Public Safety Grants and Funding in 2025
[post_excerpt] => This webinar will equip you with the tools to maximize funding and navigate the evolving grant process.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => unlocking-public-safety-grants-and-funding-in-2025
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-27 10:48:50
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-27 14:48:50
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=27459
[menu_order] => 51
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[7] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 24431
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2024-05-10 09:18:20
[post_date_gmt] => 2024-05-10 13:18:20
[post_content] =>
About this Webinar
Join us for an informative webinar on how to effectively employ First Line Technology's cutting-edge decontamination systems, including the innovative MX908, to decontaminate jails, cars, and hotel rooms. Our expert panel provides detailed information on how to use these sophisticated technologies to ensure thorough and effective decontamination processes in a variety of scenarios. Whether you work in law enforcement, facility management, or public health, this webinar will provide you with practical knowledge to improve your decontamination practices and protect your surroundings.
By Watching This Webinar, You Will be Able to:
Demystify fentanyl risks: Understand the real dangers of fentanyl, rather than prevalent falsehoods, to help establish accurate awareness and suitable response plans
Identify pollutants: Learn how to use the MX908 to quickly identify a variety of chemical hazards and contaminants, which is essential for targeted decontamination efforts
Investigate disinfection methods and technology: Identify innovative decontamination methods and technologies, and then learn how to incorporate them into current protocols to improve efficiency and efficacy in specific contexts
Ensure safety and compliance. Learn the best practices for complying with health and safety requirements while conducting decontamination techniques
Assess decontamination efficacy: Learn how to measure the success of decontamination activities, guaranteeing a safe and contaminant-free environment after cleanup
[post_title] => Maximizing Decon Efficiency: Solutions for Dangerous Drugs
[post_excerpt] => Watch this webinar to learn how First Line Technology and 908 Devices products work together to provide robust decon solutions.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => maximizing-decon-efficiency-solutions-for-fentanyl-and-other-drugs
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-27 11:40:56
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-27 15:40:56
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=24431
[menu_order] => 53
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[8] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 24259
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2024-04-23 09:17:43
[post_date_gmt] => 2024-04-23 13:17:43
[post_content] =>
About this Webinar
This webinar will equip law enforcement officers with essential insights into the geopolitical factors driving the shift from fentanyl to even more potent synthetic drugs. Participants will learn why new substances, such as xylazine and medetomidine, are emerging more frequently. In the face of a rapid escalation in drug production and distribution, the safety of law enforcement personnel hinges on their understanding of diverse drug classifications.
By Watching This Webinar, You Will Learn:
Powerful novel drugs that may replace fentanyl
Which novel drugs are skyrocketing in use
How geopolitics play a role in emerging drugs
By tuning into this webinar, law enforcement officers will be better equipped to understand and adapt to the evolving drug crisis, ensuring their safety and enhancing their ability to respond effectively to drug-related challenges.
[post_title] => Staying Ahead of the Curve: Navigating Emerging Drugs for Law Enforcement
[post_excerpt] => Learn about diverse drug classifications and why new substances, such as xylazine and medetomidine, are emerging more frequently. Stay ahead of the curve and navigate these emerging drug trends.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => staying-ahead-of-the-curve-navigating-emerging-drugs-for-law-enforcement
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:35:24
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:35:24
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=24259
[menu_order] => 54
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[9] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 24124
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2024-04-05 14:56:35
[post_date_gmt] => 2024-04-05 18:56:35
[post_content] =>
About this Webinar
The Challenges of the Opioid Crisis
Join us for an educational webinar designed specifically for law enforcement and law enforcement grant writers who are on the front lines of the battle against the fentanyl crisis and are looking to acquire the MX908. This webinar provides you with strategies to navigate the complexities of the state and federal grant programs including opioid settlement funding.
Topics Covered
Details on various grant sources and their different requirements.
How to craft compelling grant proposals that stand out.
Ways to align your department’s needs with grantor priorities.
Tips on navigating legalities and requirements when applying for and utilizing grant funds.
Expert insight on grant writing and government affairs professionals.
Whether you’re seeking to enhance your department’s resources or aiming to make a significant impact on the fentanyl epidemic, this webinar arms you with the knowledge and tools necessary for success. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the experts and take your grant acquisition skills to the next level.
What Attendees Liked From This Presentation
“The instructors were very clear and extremely good speakers, making the information easy to understand. Instructors were also very knowledgeable.”
“This webinar provided valuable information about how to find different grants, and gave places to look for them.”
“I appreciate all the information provided. I found it all very helpful.”
“It was specific to our needs and the guidance was to-the-point.”
Meet the Speaker
Samantha L. Dorm
Samantha L. Dorm is a senior grant consultant for Lexipol, serving FireGrantsHelp.com, EMSGrantsHelp.com and PoliceGrantsHelp. She first began working as a consultant for the grants division of Praetorian Digital (now Lexipol) in 2010. Dorm has been instrumental in providing grant writing guidance to various public safety and non-profit agencies throughout the United States to enable them to obtain alternative funding as well as provide instruction on statistical compilation, analysis and program development. Dorm is a reviewer for several federal agencies and also instructs grant writing workshops
[post_title] => Grant Writing Strategies for Public Safety
[post_excerpt] => Are you seeking to enhance your department's resources or make a significant impact on the fentanyl epidemic? Watch this webinar to learn about law enforcement grant writing and applications, to aid in acquiring technologies that are used on the front lines for public safety.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => grant-writing-strategies-for-public-safety
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:35:33
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:35:33
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=24124
[menu_order] => 61
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[10] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 22934
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2023-12-12 17:23:49
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-12-12 22:23:49
[post_content] =>
About this Webinar
The Challenges of the Opioid Crisis
The opioid crisis has plagued the United States for more than a decade and is now expanding globally. According to current DEA laboratory statistics, six out of ten fentanyl-laced fraudulent prescription tablets contain a potentially deadly amount of fentanyl. The particular challenge offered by these low-concentration yet very potent counterfeit tablets necessitates specialized training for law enforcement to investigate. This webinar presents an overview of the opioid epidemic in the United States, focusing on the growth of fentanyl. Real-life case studies will be used to teach you how to safely respond to and investigate an overdose incident. This webinar also teaches you to operate as an undercover agent, using social media to locate and investigate suspected distributors of counterfeit pills and fentanyl powder.
What Attendees Liked About this Presentation
“Up-to-date information, videos and knowledge.”
“The event was well-detailed. It opened my eyes to how important it is to keep watch on our kids.”
“It was very informative. The use of actual photographs, videos, and stories assisted in learning.”
“Very informative and very fast. No wasting time.”
“Speakers were knowledgeable and well-spoken.”
Meet the Speakers
Dean Cardinale
Dean Cardinale, a Detective of the Fresno Police Department (FPD). Dean has spent the previous ten years in the Major Narcotics Unit, where he has conducted over 300 drug investigations. Dean has worked as a DEA Task Force Officer in Fresno, CA, since 2016, and he just established the Fentanyl Overdose Resolution Team, which includes DEA and HSI agents. Dean appeared in the Emmy-nominated documentary "Killer High: The Silent Crisis." Dean has educated the California Narcotics Officers Association on fentanyl overdoses and investigations, and he has garnered multiple accolades for his efforts in drug crime teaching and investigations.
Bruce Gentner
Bruce Gentner is the Senior Law Enforcement Trainer for 908 Devices. Bruce retired from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department after serving more than 24 years in law enforcement, including patrol, narcotics, and federal drug task forces. Bruce spent 18 years as a case agent and undercover detective, with substantial experience in nightclub drug investigations, underground methamphetamine labs, marijuana grow operations, and fentanyl/synthetic drug operations. Bruce has served on a HIDTA interdiction and DEA task force, as well as with the FBI, HSI, and Nevada Gaming. Bruce is the Executive Director and Past President of the Nevada Narcotics Officers Association. He founded the Narcotics Education Foundation of Nevada, whose aim was to train and educate law enforcement officers about narcotics-related topics and occurrences.
[post_title] => Deadly Drug Investigations
[post_excerpt] => This webinar provides an overview of the rise of the opioid epidemic in the U.S.. Through the use of real-life case studies, you will learn how to safely respond and investigate the scene of an overdose.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-webinars-fentanyl-and-other-deadly-drug-investigations
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-27 11:51:32
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-27 15:51:32
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=22934
[menu_order] => 62
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[11] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 22501
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2023-11-20 11:47:37
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-11-20 16:47:37
[post_content] =>
The Rise of Chemical Warfare and Pharmaceutical-based Agents
In addition to traditional chemical warfare threats such as G/V-Series agents and blister agents, the emergence of unconventional chemical threats such as fentanyl and other pharmaceutical-based agents, as well as A-series agents (Novichoks), poses a unique set of challenges to Hazmat and CBRN organizations worldwide. Join us for an in-depth look at the newest tactics, detection techniques, and processes for existing and emerging threats. We provide insights from real-life incident responses to help you prepare for the ever-changing danger landscape that first responders encounter around the world. By watching this on-demand webinar you will:
Get up-to-date information on emerging threats and responses, such as chemical warfare agents (CWAs) and pharmaceutical-based agents (PBAs).
Explain the distinction between aerosolized and vapor hazards, as well as existing detection systems.
Discover MX908 Beacon, an area monitoring device for identifying CWAs and PBAs.
Discuss recommended methods for dealing with these dangers.
What Attendees Liked About this Presentation
“Very informative and thought-provoking presentation about the newest generations of chemical products.”
“Excellent presentation, linking it to real-world events.”
“Solid content by a speaker with infield background.”
Meet the Speakers
David A. Godin
David A. Godin is the Director of Field Forensic Applications for 908 Devices in Boston, Massachusetts. He holds a Masters of Forensic Sciences Degree from Boston University, and a B.S. degree in Chemistry from the United States Military Academy. Mr. Godin served five years as a US Army Chemical Officer in the 110th Chemical Battalion, Technical Escort. During that time, he served as Chemical Analyst and Officer in Charge of the Combined Explosive Exploitation Cell-North in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He has trained hundreds of Emergency Response personnel in the field analysis of controlled substances, HAZMAT Operations, and CBRNE Response.
[post_title] => Responding to Chemical Warfare and Pharmaceutical Based Agents
[post_excerpt] => A must watch for CBRN first responders. Receive the latest info on dangerous chemical threats, chemical warfare, and pharmaceutical based agents.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => on-demand-webinar-responding-to-chemical-warfare-and-pharmaceutical-based-agents
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:35:39
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:35:39
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=21533
[menu_order] => 64
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[13] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 7770
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2023-03-22 16:32:29
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-03-22 20:32:29
[post_content] =>
About this Webinar
Detecting and Identifying Narcotics that Infiltrate Corrections Facilities
It is difficult to detect and identify narcotics as they enter correctional facilities. Drugs like K2/spice and synthetic cathinones can be sprayed onto paper and discreetly hidden inside a piece of mail, or drugs can be thrown over barriers and into facilities. This webinar will cover the challenges related with drug use in correctional facilities, as well as the drug landscape.
Guidelines for protecting police and detainees from potential risks.
Case studies from prison facilities.
What Attendees Liked About this Presentation
“The speaker was very knowledgeable and presented the material so it was easy to understand.”
“Very informative. I got a lot of good information I previously did not have about the levels of the different drugs/substances that are dangerous/lethal as well as statistics on the level of use in institutions and the fatality rates.”
“Very informative, great information. Excellent presentation.”
Meet the Speaker
Jeremy VanAuker
Jeremy VanAuker is the field forensic application scientist for 908 Devices. He earned both his Master and Bachelor of Science degrees in chemistry from Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, Kansas and is currently working on his Master of Business Administration from the University of Texas at Dallas. After earning his B.S., he briefly worked at an explosives manufacturing facility as a laboratory chemist. He then worked as firefighter/EMT-Basic in Joplin, Missouri for almost five years, specializing in hazardous-material response and technical rescue. Before joining 908 Devices, Jeremy was a forensic drug chemist II for almost nine years with the Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences in Dallas, Texas, where he analyzed unknown materials for the presence or absence of controlled substances.
[post_title] => Trace Identification of Fentanyl, Synthetic Cathinones, and Other Drugs in Corrections
[post_excerpt] => Watch this on demand webinar to learn more about the challenges associated with the increased presence of drugs and how to protect officers and inmates from potential exposures.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => trace-identification-of-fentanyl-synthetic-cathinones-and-other-drugs-in-corrections
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:36:00
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:36:00
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=7770
[menu_order] => 183
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[14] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 7769
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2023-03-22 16:26:14
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-03-22 20:26:14
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Field Detection of Pesticides: Suicide, Seizures, and Sickness
[post_excerpt] => Watch this new on demand webinar as we explore the dangers of illegal marijuana grow operations and how to detect and identify toxic pesticides used in the cultivation process.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => field-detection-of-pesticides-suicide-seizures-and-sickness
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:36:05
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:36:05
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=7769
[menu_order] => 184
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[15] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 7751
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2023-03-22 16:19:34
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-03-22 20:19:34
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Responding to Emerging Threats: Detect, Decon, and Verify
[post_excerpt] => Watch this webinar to learn more about the latest tactics, detection techniques, and procedures related to current and emerging threats. From fentanyl to unconventional chemical threats this is a must-watch for any first responder.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => responding-to-emerging-threats
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:36:11
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:36:11
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=7751
[menu_order] => 185
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[16] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 5791
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2022-04-06 18:51:38
[post_date_gmt] => 2022-04-06 22:51:38
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Expert Roundtable: Trends in Illicit Drug Identification
[post_excerpt] => Learn from a panel of law enforcement experts as they discuss challenges in keeping pace with an evolving drug landscape, and how they use new technology to detect and identify drugs in the field.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => expert-roundtable-trends-in-illicit-drug-identification
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-27 12:01:13
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-27 16:01:13
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=5791
[menu_order] => 233
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[17] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 5620
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2022-02-28 14:00:15
[post_date_gmt] => 2022-02-28 19:00:15
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => The Modern Day Challenges of Law Enforcement in Drug Detection
[post_excerpt] => Presented by Patrick Glynn, Detective Lieutenant, Drug Control Unit, Quincy Police Department
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => the-modern-day-challenges-of-law-enforcement-in-drug-detection
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:42:00
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:42:00
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=5620
[menu_order] => 243
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[18] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 1213
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2021-08-02 16:52:12
[post_date_gmt] => 2021-08-02 20:52:12
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Novel Applications for EOD
[post_excerpt] => Learn how the MX908 is capable of identifying a wide range of explosives, including commercial, military, and homemade variants.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-webinar-novel-applications-for-eod
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:37:31
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:37:31
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/mx908-webinar-novel-applications-for-eod/
[menu_order] => 295
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[19] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 1198
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2021-05-27 12:22:52
[post_date_gmt] => 2021-05-27 16:22:52
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Aerosol Hazard Management 101 with The Haz Mat Guys
[post_excerpt] => In this webinar you'll learn the definition and properties of aerosol threats, aerosol hazards and the challenge they present to first responders, why aerosols have been traditionally difficult to detect and identify with legacy technologies, and how to respond to and protect yourselves and the public from aerosol threats.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-webinar-aerosol-hazard-management-101
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:22:30
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:22:30
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/mx908_webinar_aerosol-hazard-management-101/
[menu_order] => 429
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[20] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 1048
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2020-05-22 13:56:42
[post_date_gmt] => 2020-05-22 17:56:42
[post_content] =>
About this Webinar
Join us for a discussion of the Russian Novichok attack in Salisbury, England and its impacts on today’s first responders and military personnel. By watching this on-demand webinar you will:
Learn details of the high-profile poisoning attack known as the “Salisbury Incident” on March 4, 2018, involving the use of a Novichok nerve agent
Gain insights into the response in England that can guide future encounters
Explore how the MX908 can support responders who may be facing a Novichok in the field
Meet the Speakers
Mr. Rick Edinger
Rick served in the fire service for over 45 years, retiring in 2018 as the Deputy Chief of a large Metro Fire and EMS Agency in Chesterfield County, Virginia. He previously served as the Vice Chairperson of the International Association of Fire Chiefs Hazardous Materials Committee and currently serves as the chairperson for the National Fire Protection Association Technical Committee on Hazardous Materials Response.
Dr. Christina Baxter
Dr. Baxter has her PhD in Analytical Chemistry and she is currently the CEO of Emergency Response Tips. She was previously the CBRN Program Manager at the Combating Terrorism Technical Support Office. And she currently chairs the NFPA Technical Committee on Hazardous Materials: Protective Clothing and Equipment, in addition to participating in various levels on several other NFPA committees.
[post_title] => Emerging Chemical Threats: Novichoks, The Newcomers
[post_excerpt] => This webinar focuses on England's "Salisbury Incident", dangers of chemical weapons, and the importance of preparedness in dealing with Novichok threats.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-webinar-emerging-chemical-threats-novichok
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:46:00
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:46:00
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/mx908_webinar_emerging-chemical-threats-novichok/
[menu_order] => 431
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[21] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 1183
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2021-04-16 13:46:11
[post_date_gmt] => 2021-04-16 17:46:11
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => The Expanding Value of Technology in Investigations and Court
[post_excerpt] => Watch this on demand webinar to learn how MX908 technology can be leveraged in investigations and court.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908_webinar_the-expanding-value-of-technology-in-investigations-and-court
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:46:08
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:46:08
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/mx908_webinar_the-expanding-value-of-technology-in-investigations-and-court/
[menu_order] => 434
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
)
[post_count] => 22
[current_post] => -1
[before_loop] => 1
[in_the_loop] =>
[post] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 22392
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2023-11-06 08:59:40
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-11-06 13:59:40
[post_content] =>
908 Devices was featured on The HazMat Guys Podcast to discuss how our technology has evolved along with the need to provide broad coverage of chemical warfare and pharmaceutical based agents. This podcast covers everything from our handheld MX908 with Aero module to the development of the new MX908 Beacon that provides remote area monitoring of aerosol and vapor chemical threats.
Nitazenes are a newly emerging class of synthetic opioids that pose a severe and growing threat due to their extreme potency—some variants are up to 40 times stronger than fentanyl. This whitepaper explores the global rise of nitazenes, their impact on overdose rates, challenges in detection, and real-world case studies illustrating their dangers. It also highlights how advanced detection tools like the MX908 are helping first responders and law enforcement identify these substances at trace levels. Essential reading for public health officials, policymakers, and anyone involved in combating the synthetic opioid crisis.
Learn how advanced detection technology like the MX908 is helping law enforcement and first responders identify nitazenes at trace levels—saving lives and fighting back against this rising threat.
[post_title] => The Emerging Threat of Nitazenes in the Synthetic Opioid Crisis
[post_excerpt] => Discover how nitazenes—synthetic opioids up to 40x stronger than fentanyl—are fueling a new wave in the overdose crisis. Learn about detection challenges, real-world case studies, and advanced tools like the MX908 in this essential whitepaper.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => the-emerging-threat-of-nitazenes-in-the-synthetic-opioid-crisis
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:13:18
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:13:18
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=27460
[menu_order] => 17
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[1] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 20936
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2023-07-25 13:56:37
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-07-25 17:56:37
[post_content] =>
Area monitoring is essential for detecting hazardous materials in the air, ensuring public safety, and enabling timely responses to environmental and health risks. Traditional technologies, such as photoionization detectors and radiation sensors, have been used for decades but are limited in their ability to identify specific toxic threats, particularly chemical warfare agents (CWAs) and pharmaceutical-based agents (PBAs). These traditional systems also struggle with detecting aerosolized threats and provide limited remote monitoring capabilities. The introduction of the MX908 Beacon™ has significantly advanced area monitoring by enabling first responders to detect and identify vapor and aerosol threats, including CWAs and PBAs, in real-time and remotely. The MX908 Beacon allows for extended operational durations and remote data viewing, enhancing the ability to manage hazardous material incidents safely and effectively. This innovation bridges critical gaps in traditional monitoring technologies, improving public safety and responder capabilities in hazardous environments.
[post_title] => White Paper: Area Monitoring for Chemical Warfare and Pharmaceutical Based Agents
[post_excerpt] => Learn more about area monitoring and how MX908 Beacon is the only area monitor on the market to identify chemical warfare agents, etc.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => area-monitoring-for-chemical-warfare-and-pharmaceutical-based-agents
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:35:45
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:35:45
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=20936
[menu_order] => 66
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[2] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 23459
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2024-02-26 15:19:42
[post_date_gmt] => 2024-02-26 20:19:42
[post_content] =>
The MX908 is a rapid and reliable handheld device used by law enforcement to detect drugs of abuse, including trace levels in mixtures with cutting agents, which are common in street drugs. It has a low false alarm rate of 1.4%, and with additional Reachback analysis, the rate drops to 0%. The device leverages high-pressure mass spectrometry to identify substances with minimal interference from cutting agents, which can often cause false positives or negatives in other field tests like colorimetric kits. The testing demonstrated that the MX908 effectively distinguishes between controlled substances and common cutting agents, even in low concentrations. Additionally, the raw data collected by the device can be reviewed by forensic chemists to further confirm results, making it a valuable tool for law enforcement in the field.
[post_title] => The MX908 Advantage in the Presence of Cutting Agents
[post_excerpt] => Read our latest whitepaper to see how MX908 performed in a study of the most common cutting agents found around the world and, when combined with Reachback analysis, improved the false positive rate from <2%, to 0%.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-advantage-in-the-presence-of-cutting-agents
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:35:55
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:35:55
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=23459
[menu_order] => 164
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[3] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 6913
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2022-11-08 10:11:33
[post_date_gmt] => 2022-11-08 15:11:33
[post_content] =>
Despite the global trend of marijuana legalization, the illegal marijuana market continues to thrive, with criminal operations becoming more efficient. Many illegal growers are setting up “trespass grows” on public lands, bypassing regulations that ensure consumer safety and causing severe environmental damage. These grow operations often involve the use of toxic cannabis pesticides that harm wildlife, contaminate water supplies, and pose health risks to law enforcement and cleanup workers. In the U.S., the Forest Service has dismantled over 1,000 grow sites between 2017 and 2020, finding significant amounts of trash, hazardous chemicals, and illegal pesticides. Traditional detection methods for these chemicals, like colorimetric tests or lab-based mass spectrometry, are either imprecise or slow. To address this, the MX908 handheld mass spectrometer was developed, allowing for rapid and accurate identification of cannabis pesticides at illegal grow sites, enabling safer and more efficient cleanup operations.
[post_title] => White Paper: Pesticide Detection and Identification at Illegal Marijuana Grows
[post_excerpt] => With pesticides posing an imminent danger for wildlife in the area, responding law enforcement also find themselves potentially exposed to the hazardous chemicals
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-white-paper-pesticides
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-29 14:55:39
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-29 18:55:39
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=6913
[menu_order] => 174
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[4] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 4755
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2021-10-14 08:34:05
[post_date_gmt] => 2021-10-14 12:34:05
[post_content] =>
The MX908 is a handheld chemical detection tool that uses high-pressure mass spectrometry to quickly and accurately identify unknown substances, making it invaluable for law enforcement and prosecutors. It helps identify controlled substances like fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine in the field, enhancing officer safety by reducing exposure to toxic materials. The device analyzes trace amounts of substances, including residue on packaging, to identify narcotics without opening potentially dangerous containers. The MX908 supports law enforcement investigations by providing presumptive evidence for arrests, search warrants, and court proceedings, while reducing lab backlogs and conserving resources. Its results are widely accepted in court, and proper training and procedural documentation ensure the reliability and admissibility of test results.
[post_title] => Using MX908 in Investigations and Court
[post_excerpt] => Users can conduct field analysis of unknown substances at trace levels to generate actionable intelligence in real time to assess threat levels, establish probable cause, and prioritize investigatory resources accordingly, all while reducing operator exposure.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-whitepaper-mx-investigations-court
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:37:24
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:37:24
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=4755
[menu_order] => 282
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[5] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 794
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2017-11-28 16:48:55
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-11-28 21:48:55
[post_content] =>
Hazardous materials response teams often face high-pressure situations where they must quickly gather actionable information about chemical incidents, especially in high-profile settings like buildings with multiple illnesses. Initial reconnaissance (recon) efforts, using tools like multi-gas meters and photoionization detectors (PIDs), help identify potential hazards but often lack the sensitivity and specificity needed for decisive action. In these scenarios, high-pressure mass spectrometry (HPMS) technology offers a significant advantage by providing rapid, reliable chemical detection with high certainty. HPMS devices can identify chemical agents in just seconds, allowing responders to make quick, informed decisions regarding safety and medical treatment. Additionally, HPMS can switch between vapor and trace modes for on-site analysis, reducing the need for multiple surveys and speeding up the response process. This portable, fast, and accurate technology enhances the ability of response teams to effectively address chemical threats in various emergency situations.
[post_title] => Actionable Information from High Pressure Mass Spectrometry
[post_excerpt] => The detection and identification of chemicals with HPMS carries sufficient information to warrant definitive action, medical treatment and communication.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => actionable-information-high-pressure-mass-spectrometry
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:22:01
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:22:01
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/actionable-information-high-pressure-mass-spectrometry/
[menu_order] => 329
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[6] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 885
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2019-03-15 14:19:02
[post_date_gmt] => 2019-03-15 18:19:02
[post_content] =>
The MX908 is a field identification tool that provides rapid, accurate, and reliable analysis of controlled substances, making it an essential tool for law enforcement. Powered by high-pressure mass spectrometry, it enables officers to quickly identify substances with minimal user interpretation and without exposure to toxic materials like synthetic opioids. The device can analyze trace amounts of drugs, including fentanyl and carfentanil, that other methods often miss. Its results can establish probable cause for warrants, facilitate plea deals, and expedite cases by providing immediate feedback, reducing reliance on slow lab results. The MX908 is admissible in court under Federal Laws of Evidence and has been proven reliable by multiple independent agencies, supporting its use in criminal investigations.
[post_title] => Trace Detection in the Field Expedites Prosecution
[post_excerpt] => Mass spectrometry is classified as a Category A technique by the Scientific Working Group on Seized Drug Analysis (SWGDRG) and ASTM 2329-17 and has been admissible in court for more than 50 years. Download to read more.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => trace-detection-in-the-field-expedites-prosecution
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:44:48
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:44:48
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/trace-detection-in-the-field-expedites-prosecution/
[menu_order] => 395
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[7] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 1194
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2021-05-07 19:34:02
[post_date_gmt] => 2021-05-07 23:34:02
[post_content] =>
Emergency responders face unique challenges when selecting personal protective equipment (PPE) and responding to hazardous materials, especially aerosols. Aerosols, which consist of solid or liquid particles suspended in the air, behave like gases but retain the properties of solids or liquids. These particles pose significant risks due to their ability to remain airborne and be inhaled, potentially leading to severe health hazards. Traditional detection methods struggle to identify aerosolized chemicals, as they typically require substances to be in solid, liquid, or gas form. Recent advancements, such as the MX908® with the Aero module, allow responders to detect and identify aerosolized threats in real-time, improving safety and response effectiveness. This technology helps manage the complexities of aerosol hazards by providing accurate, on-site identification of airborne chemical threats, including toxic materials like fentanyl and chemical warfare agents.
[post_title] => Aerosol Hazard Management 101
[post_excerpt] => Read this white paper to learn more about the hazard posed by aerosolized chemicals. You will learn about aerosols and their properties and how to successfully address them in the field.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-white-paper-aerosol-hazard-management-101
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:22:22
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:22:22
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/mx908_white-paper_aerosol-hazard-management-101/
[menu_order] => 437
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[8] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 1080
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2020-06-22 17:12:39
[post_date_gmt] => 2020-06-22 21:12:39
[post_content] =>
The poisoning of Sergei and Yulia Skripal in 2019 highlighted the global concerns about Fourth Generation Agents (FGAs), such as the Novichok series, which are highly toxic chemical agents. This document provides guidance for first responders on detecting, identifying, decontaminating, and destroying these agents using commercially available technologies. FGAs pose serious health risks, primarily through dermal exposure, but can also be absorbed via inhalation or ingestion. Detection technologies like Raman, FTIR, and colorimetric methods are inadequate for FGAs due to their high limits of detection. The MX908 from 908 Devices is the only portable device capable of identifying trace levels of A-series agents with high sensitivity. For decontamination, a hybrid approach is recommended, combining Fibertect wipes, Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion (RSDL), and Dahlgren Decon, along with the use of detection devices to ensure complete removal of the threat.
[post_title] => Operational Response to Fourth Generation Agents
[post_excerpt] => Read this whitepaper written by Christina Baxter Ph.D., to prepare responders with commercially available solutions to detect, identify, decontaminate, destroy, and confirm the destruction of the A-series agents.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-white-paper-response-to-fourth-generation-agents
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:39:34
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:39:34
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/mx908_white-paper_response-to-fourth-generation-agents/
[menu_order] => 455
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[9] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 988
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2020-02-25 13:49:14
[post_date_gmt] => 2020-02-25 18:49:14
[post_content] =>
Trace detection of hazardous materials, especially in light of the opioid epidemic and emerging threats like Novichoks, requires highly sensitive and reliable tools to detect both "invisible" (extremely small quantities) and "hidden" (small amounts mixed with larger, non-hazardous substances) threats. Current detection methods, such as ion mobility spectrometry (IMS), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS), and optical techniques, face limitations in sensitivity, specificity, and operational efficiency. High-pressure mass spectrometry (HPMS), particularly the MX908 device, overcomes these limitations by offering both high sensitivity and fidelity, capable of detecting substances at concentrations as low as 20 nanograms. The HPMS's ability to generate mass spectral images allows for accurate identification and differentiation of chemicals, even in complex mixtures, and it can detect novel chemical threats using predictive algorithms. The MX908 combines the benefits of both trace and bulk detection, providing a powerful tool for emergency responders to handle the increasing variety of chemical hazards confidently and quickly.
[post_title] => A New Approach to Trace Detection
[post_excerpt] => Today’s emergency responders and security personnel need detection capabilities which address both categories with high sensitivity (the ability to detect threat materials below harmful levels) and high fidelity (the ability to detect reproducibly and reliably).
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => a-new-approach-to-trace-detection
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:21:51
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:21:51
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/a-new-approach-to-trace-detection/
[menu_order] => 456
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
)
[post_count] => 10
[current_post] => -1
[before_loop] => 1
[in_the_loop] =>
[post] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 27460
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2025-03-20 17:15:11
[post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-20 21:15:11
[post_content] =>
Nitazenes are a newly emerging class of synthetic opioids that pose a severe and growing threat due to their extreme potency—some variants are up to 40 times stronger than fentanyl. This whitepaper explores the global rise of nitazenes, their impact on overdose rates, challenges in detection, and real-world case studies illustrating their dangers. It also highlights how advanced detection tools like the MX908 are helping first responders and law enforcement identify these substances at trace levels. Essential reading for public health officials, policymakers, and anyone involved in combating the synthetic opioid crisis.
Learn how advanced detection technology like the MX908 is helping law enforcement and first responders identify nitazenes at trace levels—saving lives and fighting back against this rising threat.
[post_title] => The HazMat Guys Podcast, Part 2: Measuring Aerosols
[post_excerpt] => Listen to Episode 291, Part 2 of the HazMat Guys Podcast on Aerosols. The guys discuss common techniques used to measure aerosols and how to keep safe while responding to aerosolized threats.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => measuring-and-understanding-aerosol-threats
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:38:22
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:38:22
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=7730
[menu_order] => 334
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[1] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 7732
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2023-03-14 16:49:37
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-03-14 20:49:37
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => The HazMat Guys Podcast, Part 1: What are Aerosols?
[post_excerpt] => Listen to Episode 290, Part 1 of the HazMat Guys Podcast to learn more about aerosol threats and the challenges they pose to responders.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => the-hazmat-guys-podcast-part-1-what-are-aerosols
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:38:27
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:38:27
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=7732
[menu_order] => 335
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
)
[post_count] => 2
[current_post] => -1
[before_loop] => 1
[in_the_loop] =>
[post] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 7730
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2023-03-14 16:47:06
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-03-14 20:47:06
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => A Conversation with Christina Baxter About Fentanyl
[post_excerpt] => Dr. Christina Baxter is the CEO of Emergency Response TIPS, LLC and a partner in Hazard3, LLC which provides practical, evidence-based solutions for emergency response.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => a-conversation-with-christina-baxter-about-fentanyl
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:20:15
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:20:15
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=5344
[menu_order] => 252
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[1] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 5342
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2022-02-07 15:42:27
[post_date_gmt] => 2022-02-07 20:42:27
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => A Conversation with Christina Baxter About Aerosol Hazards
[post_excerpt] => Dr. Christina Baxter is the CEO of Emergency Response TIPS, LLC and a partner in Hazard3, LLC which provides practical, evidence-based solutions for emergency response.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => a-conversation-with-christina-baxter-about-aerosol-hazards
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:19:13
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:19:13
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=5342
[menu_order] => 253
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[2] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 5062
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2021-12-14 07:29:45
[post_date_gmt] => 2021-12-14 12:29:45
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Conversations with Patrick Glynn, Christina Baxter, and Michael Gray
[post_excerpt] => A trio of industry experts shares their perspectives on the MX908.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-testimonial-trio-testimonial
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:42:46
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:42:46
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=5062
[menu_order] => 269
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
)
[post_count] => 3
[current_post] => -1
[before_loop] => 1
[in_the_loop] =>
[post] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 5344
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2022-02-07 15:48:29
[post_date_gmt] => 2022-02-07 20:48:29
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => MX908 Beacon Product Video
[post_excerpt] => Watch this video to see how MX908 Beacon can be deployed to provide remote area monitoring to provide real-time identification of airborne hazards.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-beacon-product-video
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:35:07
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:35:07
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=21468
[menu_order] => 41
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[1] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 26201
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2024-10-23 12:12:07
[post_date_gmt] => 2024-10-23 16:12:07
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Interview: RSK Media Interviews Kevin J. Knopp
[post_excerpt] => RSK Media, Rizwan Chaudhrey, visited Boston and met with 908 Devices CEO, Kevin J. Knopp. Topics included key business drivers, the RedWave Technology acquisition, and the future of life sciences.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => interview-rsk-media-interviews-kevin-j-knopp
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-20 11:57:35
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-20 15:57:35
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=26201
[menu_order] => 80
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[2] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 6510
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2022-09-21 11:20:18
[post_date_gmt] => 2022-09-21 15:20:18
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => MX Files – Episode 2: Destruction of Evidence
[post_excerpt] => Watch this episode of the MX Files to see how the MX908 identified trace levels of residue left from drug evidence before it was destroyed.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-video-mx-files-destruction-of-evidence
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:41:34
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:41:34
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=6510
[menu_order] => 189
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[3] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 5727
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2022-03-23 17:47:27
[post_date_gmt] => 2022-03-23 21:47:27
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => MX908 Product Video
[post_excerpt] => Watch our MX908 product video for a full product overview including applicable applications for use - law enforcement, hazmat, explosives and more.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-product-video
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:41:55
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:41:55
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=5727
[menu_order] => 241
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[4] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 5560
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2022-02-09 14:16:28
[post_date_gmt] => 2022-02-09 19:16:28
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => MX Files - Episode 1 - Aerosolized Fentanyl
[post_excerpt] => Join us for this episode of the MX Files featuring Canadian Decon Solutions and a story about an encounter with fentanyl.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx-files-episode-1-aerosolized-fentanyl
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:42:24
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:42:24
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=5560
[menu_order] => 249
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[5] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 4997
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2021-11-24 10:10:52
[post_date_gmt] => 2021-11-24 15:10:52
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Benefits of the MX908 with Aero
[post_excerpt] => Watch this video to learn the benefits of MX908 with aero module for vapor and aerosol chemical detection and identification.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908_video_mx908-with-aero-benefits
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:23:47
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:23:47
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=4997
[menu_order] => 271
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[6] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 4776
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2021-10-21 11:51:32
[post_date_gmt] => 2021-10-21 15:51:32
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => MX908 Demo - Trace Analysis of Suspected Explosive
[post_excerpt] => Quick demonstration of how MX908 can identify a trace explosive quickly by a simple swab of outside of a bottle.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-video-trace-analysis-of-suspected-explosive
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:36:55
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:36:55
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=4776
[menu_order] => 277
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[7] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 4774
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2021-10-21 11:43:36
[post_date_gmt] => 2021-10-21 15:43:36
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => MX908 Demo - Trace Analysis of Explosive Residue at an HME Lab
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-video-trace-analysis-of-explosive-residue-at-hme-lab
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:37:01
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:37:01
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=4774
[menu_order] => 278
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[8] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 4772
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2021-10-21 11:37:11
[post_date_gmt] => 2021-10-21 15:37:11
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => MX908 Demo - Trace Analysis of Suspect Vehicle
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-video-demo-trace-analysis-of-a-suspect-vehicle
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:37:06
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:37:06
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=4772
[menu_order] => 279
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[9] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 4770
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2021-10-21 11:30:33
[post_date_gmt] => 2021-10-21 15:30:33
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => MX908 Demo - Trace RDX Demonstration
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-video-trace-rdx-demonstration
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:37:10
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:37:10
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=4770
[menu_order] => 280
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[10] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 799
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2017-12-21 18:12:06
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-12-21 23:12:06
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => MX908 Demo
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-demo
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:38:03
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:38:03
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/mx908-demo/
[menu_order] => 320
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[11] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 801
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2017-12-21 18:16:20
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-12-21 23:16:20
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Startup and Vapor Mode Demo
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-startup-vapor-mode
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:38:08
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:38:08
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/mx908-startup-vapor-mode/
[menu_order] => 321
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[12] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 804
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2017-12-21 18:21:10
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-12-21 23:21:10
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Trace Sampling Demo
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-trace-sampling
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:38:13
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:38:13
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/mx908-trace-sampling/
[menu_order] => 323
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[13] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 806
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2017-12-21 18:23:25
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-12-21 23:23:25
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Mission Mode Intro
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-mission-modes
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:38:17
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:38:17
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/mx908-mission-modes/
[menu_order] => 325
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[14] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 1158
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2021-05-10 20:11:58
[post_date_gmt] => 2021-05-11 00:11:58
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => MX908 with Aero
[post_excerpt] => MX908 with Aero enables operators to detect and identify aerosolized threats, such as Chemical Warfare Agents (CWAs) and Pharmaceutical-based Agents (PBAs), which represent a critical gap in existing chemical detection solutions.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-video_mx908-aero-video_meal
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:44:51
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:44:51
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/mx908_-video_mx908-aero-video_meal/
[menu_order] => 396
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
)
[post_count] => 15
[current_post] => -1
[before_loop] => 1
[in_the_loop] =>
[post] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 21468
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2023-08-30 15:29:03
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-08-30 19:29:03
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => The New MX908 Beacon for Area Monitoring
[post_excerpt] => We recently caught up with The HazMat Guys Podcast to discuss what's new from 908 Devices for area monitoring missions.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => podcast-the-new-mx908-beacon-for-area-monitoring
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:11:42
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:11:42
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=22392
[menu_order] => 9
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[1] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 24475
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2024-05-13 13:01:09
[post_date_gmt] => 2024-05-13 17:01:09
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Beyond Detection: The Imperative for Advanced Trace-Level Identification of Synthetic Opioids
[post_excerpt] => This webinar explores strategies for implementing MX908 for HIDTA and Counterdrug initiatives.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => beyond-detection-the-imperative-for-advanced-trace-level-identification-of-synthetic-opioids
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-20 11:29:15
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-20 15:29:15
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=24475
[menu_order] => 46
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[2] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 25649
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2024-08-22 08:38:48
[post_date_gmt] => 2024-08-22 12:38:48
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Empowering Field Operations: Integrated Chemical Analysis
[post_excerpt] => This webinar is designed for emergency response teams, defense personnel, and security professionals needing quick, accurate integrated chemical analysis.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => empowering-field-operations-integrated-chemical-analysis
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-17 12:06:59
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-17 16:06:59
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=25649
[menu_order] => 47
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[3] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 26356
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2024-11-15 14:18:18
[post_date_gmt] => 2024-11-15 19:18:18
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Improving Substance Detection and Identification in Correctional Facilities
[post_excerpt] => Watch this webinar to learn more about MX908 for Corrections Screening and pairing with RaySecur's MailSecur system for robust narcotics identification in correctional facilities.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => improving-substance-detection-and-identification-in-correctional-facilities
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:27:22
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:27:22
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=26356
[menu_order] => 48
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[4] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 26616
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2024-12-12 09:19:40
[post_date_gmt] => 2024-12-12 14:19:40
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Simplifying Everyday Hazmat Calls with Advanced Technology
[post_excerpt] => From routine calls such as carbon monoxide and odor detection, to more complex incidents involving multiple chemical substances learn how hazmat response tools like XplorIR and MX908 allow responders to work smarter.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => simplifying-everyday-hazmat-calls-with-advanced-technology
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-27 11:35:16
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-27 15:35:16
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=26616
[menu_order] => 49
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[5] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 27222
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2025-01-31 09:59:32
[post_date_gmt] => 2025-01-31 14:59:32
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Unmasking Nitazenes: Novel Substances Joining Fentanyl in the Synthetic Opioid Landscape
[post_excerpt] => This webinar explores the emerging threat of nitazenes, their parallels to the fentanyl crisis, and how the MX908 enhances detection and analysis for law enforcement, forensic professionals, and medical examiners.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => unmasking-nitazenes-novel-substances-joining-fentanyl-in-the-synthetic-opioid-landscape
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-27 10:47:09
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-27 14:47:09
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=27222
[menu_order] => 50
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[6] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 27459
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2025-03-20 17:16:01
[post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-20 21:16:01
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Unlocking Public Safety Grants and Funding in 2025
[post_excerpt] => This webinar will equip you with the tools to maximize funding and navigate the evolving grant process.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => unlocking-public-safety-grants-and-funding-in-2025
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-27 10:48:50
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-27 14:48:50
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=27459
[menu_order] => 51
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[7] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 24431
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2024-05-10 09:18:20
[post_date_gmt] => 2024-05-10 13:18:20
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Maximizing Decon Efficiency: Solutions for Dangerous Drugs
[post_excerpt] => Watch this webinar to learn how First Line Technology and 908 Devices products work together to provide robust decon solutions.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => maximizing-decon-efficiency-solutions-for-fentanyl-and-other-drugs
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-27 11:40:56
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-27 15:40:56
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=24431
[menu_order] => 53
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[8] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 24259
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2024-04-23 09:17:43
[post_date_gmt] => 2024-04-23 13:17:43
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Staying Ahead of the Curve: Navigating Emerging Drugs for Law Enforcement
[post_excerpt] => Learn about diverse drug classifications and why new substances, such as xylazine and medetomidine, are emerging more frequently. Stay ahead of the curve and navigate these emerging drug trends.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => staying-ahead-of-the-curve-navigating-emerging-drugs-for-law-enforcement
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:35:24
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:35:24
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=24259
[menu_order] => 54
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[9] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 24124
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2024-04-05 14:56:35
[post_date_gmt] => 2024-04-05 18:56:35
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Grant Writing Strategies for Public Safety
[post_excerpt] => Are you seeking to enhance your department's resources or make a significant impact on the fentanyl epidemic? Watch this webinar to learn about law enforcement grant writing and applications, to aid in acquiring technologies that are used on the front lines for public safety.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => grant-writing-strategies-for-public-safety
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:35:33
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:35:33
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=24124
[menu_order] => 61
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[10] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 22934
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2023-12-12 17:23:49
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-12-12 22:23:49
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Deadly Drug Investigations
[post_excerpt] => This webinar provides an overview of the rise of the opioid epidemic in the U.S.. Through the use of real-life case studies, you will learn how to safely respond and investigate the scene of an overdose.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-webinars-fentanyl-and-other-deadly-drug-investigations
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-27 11:51:32
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-27 15:51:32
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=22934
[menu_order] => 62
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[11] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 22501
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2023-11-20 11:47:37
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-11-20 16:47:37
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Suspect Fentanyl Mail Analysis and Best Practices
[post_excerpt] => Watch our quick webinar on suspect fentanyl mail analysis to learn best practices on utilizing MX908 for screening suspected mail.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => suspect-fentanyl-mail-analysis-and-best-practices
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-29 14:59:08
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-29 18:59:08
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=22501
[menu_order] => 63
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[12] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 21533
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2023-08-31 15:25:30
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-08-31 19:25:30
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Responding to Chemical Warfare and Pharmaceutical Based Agents
[post_excerpt] => A must watch for CBRN first responders. Receive the latest info on dangerous chemical threats, chemical warfare, and pharmaceutical based agents.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => on-demand-webinar-responding-to-chemical-warfare-and-pharmaceutical-based-agents
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:35:39
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:35:39
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=21533
[menu_order] => 64
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[13] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 7770
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2023-03-22 16:32:29
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-03-22 20:32:29
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Trace Identification of Fentanyl, Synthetic Cathinones, and Other Drugs in Corrections
[post_excerpt] => Watch this on demand webinar to learn more about the challenges associated with the increased presence of drugs and how to protect officers and inmates from potential exposures.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => trace-identification-of-fentanyl-synthetic-cathinones-and-other-drugs-in-corrections
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:36:00
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:36:00
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=7770
[menu_order] => 183
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[14] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 7769
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2023-03-22 16:26:14
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-03-22 20:26:14
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Field Detection of Pesticides: Suicide, Seizures, and Sickness
[post_excerpt] => Watch this new on demand webinar as we explore the dangers of illegal marijuana grow operations and how to detect and identify toxic pesticides used in the cultivation process.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => field-detection-of-pesticides-suicide-seizures-and-sickness
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:36:05
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:36:05
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=7769
[menu_order] => 184
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[15] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 7751
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2023-03-22 16:19:34
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-03-22 20:19:34
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Responding to Emerging Threats: Detect, Decon, and Verify
[post_excerpt] => Watch this webinar to learn more about the latest tactics, detection techniques, and procedures related to current and emerging threats. From fentanyl to unconventional chemical threats this is a must-watch for any first responder.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => responding-to-emerging-threats
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:36:11
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:36:11
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=7751
[menu_order] => 185
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[16] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 5791
[post_author] => 34
[post_date] => 2022-04-06 18:51:38
[post_date_gmt] => 2022-04-06 22:51:38
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Expert Roundtable: Trends in Illicit Drug Identification
[post_excerpt] => Learn from a panel of law enforcement experts as they discuss challenges in keeping pace with an evolving drug landscape, and how they use new technology to detect and identify drugs in the field.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => expert-roundtable-trends-in-illicit-drug-identification
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-05-27 12:01:13
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-27 16:01:13
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=5791
[menu_order] => 233
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[17] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 5620
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2022-02-28 14:00:15
[post_date_gmt] => 2022-02-28 19:00:15
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => The Modern Day Challenges of Law Enforcement in Drug Detection
[post_excerpt] => Presented by Patrick Glynn, Detective Lieutenant, Drug Control Unit, Quincy Police Department
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => the-modern-day-challenges-of-law-enforcement-in-drug-detection
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:42:00
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:42:00
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/?post_type=resource&p=5620
[menu_order] => 243
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[18] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 1213
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2021-08-02 16:52:12
[post_date_gmt] => 2021-08-02 20:52:12
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Novel Applications for EOD
[post_excerpt] => Learn how the MX908 is capable of identifying a wide range of explosives, including commercial, military, and homemade variants.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-webinar-novel-applications-for-eod
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:37:31
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:37:31
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/mx908-webinar-novel-applications-for-eod/
[menu_order] => 295
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[19] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 1198
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2021-05-27 12:22:52
[post_date_gmt] => 2021-05-27 16:22:52
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Aerosol Hazard Management 101 with The Haz Mat Guys
[post_excerpt] => In this webinar you'll learn the definition and properties of aerosol threats, aerosol hazards and the challenge they present to first responders, why aerosols have been traditionally difficult to detect and identify with legacy technologies, and how to respond to and protect yourselves and the public from aerosol threats.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-webinar-aerosol-hazard-management-101
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:22:30
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:22:30
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/mx908_webinar_aerosol-hazard-management-101/
[menu_order] => 429
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[20] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 1048
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2020-05-22 13:56:42
[post_date_gmt] => 2020-05-22 17:56:42
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => Emerging Chemical Threats: Novichoks, The Newcomers
[post_excerpt] => This webinar focuses on England's "Salisbury Incident", dangers of chemical weapons, and the importance of preparedness in dealing with Novichok threats.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908-webinar-emerging-chemical-threats-novichok
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:46:00
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:46:00
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/mx908_webinar_emerging-chemical-threats-novichok/
[menu_order] => 431
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[21] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 1183
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2021-04-16 13:46:11
[post_date_gmt] => 2021-04-16 17:46:11
[post_content] =>
[post_title] => The Expanding Value of Technology in Investigations and Court
[post_excerpt] => Watch this on demand webinar to learn how MX908 technology can be leveraged in investigations and court.
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => mx908_webinar_the-expanding-value-of-technology-in-investigations-and-court
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2025-06-11 15:46:08
[post_modified_gmt] => 2025-06-11 19:46:08
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://908devices.com/resource/mx908_webinar_the-expanding-value-of-technology-in-investigations-and-court/
[menu_order] => 434
[post_type] => resource
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
)
[post_count] => 22
[current_post] => -1
[before_loop] => 1
[in_the_loop] =>
[post] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 22392
[post_author] => 29
[post_date] => 2023-11-06 08:59:40
[post_date_gmt] => 2023-11-06 13:59:40
[post_content] =>