The non-invasive identification of heroin covered by simulation skin based on coherence function algorithm and wavelet

As body-packing is a well-known means of illicit drug carriage across international borders, the goal of our study is to provide a new method for the detection of body-packing (ingested drug packets) based on energy dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDXRD) and algorithms. Packets containing heroin (purity > 90%) were introduced into the experimental body in which pork was used as simulation body. The samples were repeatedly scanned by energy dispersive X-ray diffraction spectrometer, and then, threshold wavelet and coherence function were used to analyze the obtained EDXRD spectra. In our investigation, two criteria were used for the identification of heroin in pork. One was that matching the diffraction profile of unknown material and samples via coherence function which was on the basis of setting-up samples database of heroin in pork. The other was that matching the positions and shapes of heroin diffraction peaks. On the basis of the experimental tests and data analysis, it is indicated that the presented methods are effective and reasonable for the detection of heroin in body.

► We detect heroin covered by skin which can accurately determine the kind of substance. ► Threshold wavelet and coherence function were used for identification of EDXRD spectrum. ► We construct EDXRD spectrum database of body packing drugs.