Harwell based Agilent  has supplied its Bulk Resolution Technology (BRT) systems to passenger security checkpoints at FIFA World Cup U.S. host city airports

The company has been awarded a contract by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to deploy its new Bulk Alarm Resolution Technology (BRT) to security checkpoints at FIFA World Cup U.S. host city airports with the capabilities to screen larger quantities of liquids, powders, and solids commonly encountered in airport security screening operations.

“Agilent is thrilled to have been selected by TSA to modernise passenger security screening checkpoints at U.S. airports in advance of FIFA World Cup matches,” said Geoff Winkett, vice president and general manager of the Spectroscopy and Vacuum Division at Agilent. “TSA’s deployment of the BRT, our next-generation alarm resolution technology, is a significant milestone. We look forward to introducing the BRT into TSA’s screening operations to quickly and accurately screen and resolve alarms from powders, liquids, and other items.”

“Deployment of the BRT at FIFA host city airports will enable the fast and accurate screening of food, liquids, creams and other commonly surrendered items and provides us with the opportunity to enhance operational efficiencies and improve travelers’ experience,” said Dr. Robert Stokes, director of detection and security at Agilent.

Agilent’s BRT is an alarm resolution device utilising Agilent’s proprietary Surface Offset Raman Spectroscopy (SORS) combined with sophisticated algorithms to deliver precision confirmatory screening of liquids, gels, creams, solids and powders through a wide range of containers at security checkpoints. The latest addition to its range of precision portable and desktop solutions, the BRT joins Agilent’s Insight Series Alarm Resolution systems to enhance safety and streamline operations at airport security checkpoints worldwide. Agilent’s BRT and Insight Series meet global detection requirements for screening liquids, aerosols, and gels (LAGs) and support high volume security screening delivering precision threat detection through complex barriers, such as opaque containers, or multi-layered materials.

The deployment also highlights the global impact of innovation originating at Harwell. Agilent’s BRT is based on Spatially Offset Raman Spectroscopy (SORS), a technology developed at Harwell’s Central Laser Facility. Cobalt Light Systems was subsequently spun out from the CLF to commercialise the technology and was acquired by Agilent in 2017. Today, Agilent’s Harwell site serves as the company’s global centre of excellence for Raman spectroscopy, continuing to develop technologies that are now being deployed to enhance security screening at airports hosting FIFA World Cup 2026 matches.