MESMERISE will develop and test a High-resolution non-intrusive scanner up to TRL 5 able to automatically detect and identify both internal and external concealed commodities being entirely independent of human operator interpretation and training and based on two complementary technologies: ultra-low-dose Multispectral Xray transmission and Infrasonic interrogation. A novel x-ray detector, in addition to a higher imaging resolution, captures 256 channels of spectroscopic information, allowing a step change in material identification. Crucially, this level of resolution has the potential to enhance the detection of narcotics and explosives concealed in the body -a highly complex problem with currently available equipment. A second subsystem for detecting externally concealed items based on a novel, intrinsically safe, technology (infrasound near-field acoustic holography) is entirely new to security screening. Low-fq MEM Micro-technology shall also be exploited to provide an automated version of non-contact pat-down. Both sub-systems will be able to work independently, or together to provide complementary information and improve the detection of externally concealed objects. Automated algorithms for both subsystems and, through data fusion techniques, for the combined system will identify chemical substances, recognise pattern and detect anomalies with100g threshold in any part of the body, including prosthetic elements or plasters. A big manufacturer of body scanners, SMEs, Univs, R&D centres, end-users and a diverse and high quality external advisory board, with a broad international contribution and connection to US counterparts provides a straightforward exploitation route. Acceptance by society will be promoted by communication activities highlighting its non-contact nature, non divest condition and the absence of the requirement for operators to view explicit images through automated detection making MESMERISE intrinsically respectful of dignity and privacy.

EU customs administrations implement common rules at the EU Customs Union borders. They protect society while facilitating legitimate trade. Alongside the collection of duties and taxes, customs core activities now include security related roles including fighting illegal trade in drugs, weapons, radioactive and nuclear materials, security sensitive dual-use items, illicit waste and other environmental threats. To deal with high volumes of goods moving across the Union`s borders, and the need to restrict physical interventions to a minimum, customs operate a risk-based, multi-level detection architecture at Border Crossing Points. This must take into account the nature of the operational environment, the threat materials to be detected, and the types of concealments used by smugglers. For more than two decades, customs have used X-ray scanning as a first level control. However, current applications of this technology continue to result in a relatively high level of false positives/negatives and inconclusive results, giving rise to secondary controls, including physical inspections. This can be attributed in part to a failure to develop operator skills through accredited training and sharing of images of threat materials and concealments in a structured manner. Moreover, second level technology controls such as Raman spectroscopy are frequently applied with a narrow focus. The EU Customs Control Equipment Instrument aims to harmonize customs controls at the EU borders and to upgrade customs equipment including X-ray scanners and field analysis devices. BORDERLINK aims to make a significant contribution to CCEI aims as well as the planned reform of the Customs Union. BORDERLINK will enhance customs` capabilities and performance at EU borders by advancing the detection and identification of threat materials, improving training, communication and data sharing. It will help to strengthen supply chain controls and promote the Green Customs Initiative.

PEN-CP, the Pan-European Network of Customs Practitioners – EU Horizon 2020 funded Customs security practitioner project – acts as a European Customs innovation boosting network, powered by an innovation-centric online platform, and tailored innovation intermediary services. Since the start of the project (Sep.2018), the project consortium includes the following 13 administrations as full partners (9 EU and 4 non-EU): ALB, AUT, BEL, EST, GBR, HUN, IRL, LTU, LVA, NLD, MKD, NOR & SVK. PEN-CP focuses on accelerating innovation efforts across three core Customs technical areas: Data and risk management; Detection technologies; and Laboratory equipment. We have a broad variety of innovation and knowledge instruments in use, including Technology grants, Challenge competitions, Innovation awards, Annual studies and Expert reports. Across our activities, we aim to connect innovation-spirited Customs officers, helping them to ‘find friends in Customs innovation’. The vision is to become a permanent Customs innovation boosting network, helping to accelerate both incremental and radical innovations, for the benefit of Customs administrations in Europe and beyond.