Thermo Electron Launches a Portable Infrared Analyzer for Immediate On-Scene Material ID

MADISON, Wis. (June XX, 2004) Thermo Electron Corporation (NYSE: TMO) introduces the Nicolet Compound ID portable infrared analyzer – a rugged, easy-to-use instrument that provides fast, high-quality, non-destructive classification of materials under extreme conditions. First Response Hazardous Materials (HazMat) teams and portable laboratory analysts can now identify unknown substances rapidly on-scene. The Nicolet Compound ID analyzer is a robust, self-contained unit built for rapid deployment and tested for use wearing protective gear, including Level A suit and SCBA gear.

The Nicolet Compound ID analyzer is designed to operate in HazMat restricted area warm zones while its lightweight removable sampling module (Seal IR), lets the responder enter the hot zone. The unknown sample can then be contained within the Seal IRs airtight seal, fully immersed in decontamination solution, and returned to the analyzer for material identification. Multiple Seal IR modules can be used for simultaneous sampling when time is critical. This sampling system minimizes overall instrument contamination, simplifies the cleaning process, and reduces the operating time between samples. If necessary, the entire Nicolet Compound ID analyzer can also be immersed in cleaning solution.

A simple software interface guides the responder through the analysis of the unknown materials. Step-by-step instructions are provided on the systems in-built computer screen. The resulting data is automatically compared to a database of over 21,000 reference materials providing the responder with a clear report of the match results. Database libraries include White Powders, Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Chemicals, and Common Materials.

The system uses Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) technology, an established and proven method for the determination of a materials composition. The results are fast, accurate and non-destructive, preserving the sample for further analysis.

For more information on the Nicolet Compound ID analyzer, please call +1 800-532-4752 or e-mail analyze@thermo.com.