Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Plant Sciences, Zoology & Evolution => Topic started by: Richard Townsend on 20/07/2009 15:30:03

Title: How can a sniffer dog detect plastic-wrapped contraband?
Post by: Richard Townsend on 20/07/2009 15:30:03

Richard Townsend  asked the Naked Scientists:
   
Hi Chris,

I saw a TV programme about sniffer dogs and how they can smell contraband through 2 layers of plastic.How does this work? Is it molecular, atomic or quantum action that allows something to migrate through the plastic?

Richard Townsend

What do you think?

Title: How can a sniffer dog detect plastic-wrapped contraband?
Post by: LeeE on 20/07/2009 19:52:00

If the packaging is airtight I suspect it's through contamination of the outside of the wrapping.  Obviously, if the wrapping is not airtight then some of the molecules can simply escape to the air.