About the project
The PENTION project focuses on combating the production and trafficking of drugs, which represents a significant social challenge globally and particularly within the European Union.
The project specifically targets the rapidly evolving and highly dangerous situation of the proliferation of synthetic drugs, including New Psychoactive Substances (NPS), which pose a serious cross-border threat to public health. This emphasis is necessary because the traditional model of drug production and supply has changed, previously based on importing chemical precursors from Eastern countries with highly concentrated local production in various areas of the EU, such as the Limburg region in the Netherlands, where clandestine labs have been increasingly established. As a result, traditional seizure methods are no longer efficient or effective.
Although PENTION is focused on synthetic drugs, the results and technologies developed will also be directly applicable to NPS cases, such as fentanyl and new opioids.
The main goal of the PENTION project is to develop and implement new strategies and technologies with improved performance for detecting these substances and identifying clandestine labs involved in their production.
Technological added value
PENTION introduces a breakthrough solution for the rapid and accurate detection of synthetic drugs and their precursors. Its innovation lies in the combination of Differential Mobility Analysis (DMA) and Mass Spectrometry (MS), a combination that provides exceptional sensitivity, selectivity, and reliability.
By generating a detailed chemical fingerprint of each sample, PENTION can identify even trace amounts of substances, including new psychoactive compounds.
Designed for maximum flexibility, PENTION will be developed in two versions:
A stationary unit designed for detection
in warehouses and cargo storage areas.
A mobile version integrated in a van, capable of detecting vapours
directly in open areas and clandestine production zones.
This combination of high sensitivity, intelligent data analysis, and full portability gives law enforcement and authorities a powerful new tool to stay ahead of evolving drug production challenges.
Socio-Economic and
Security Impacts
- Public Health and Healthcare Benefits
- Reduction in Crime and Violence
- Improvement in Family and Social Wellbeing
- Economic and Productivity Impact
- Breaking the Cycle of Addiction and Stigmatization
Technological and
Operational Impacts
- Enhanced Detection Performance
- Identification of New Substances
- Extended Applicability
Contribution to UN Sustainable Development Goals
PENTION’s fight against drug trafficking is considered crucial for sustainable progress, potentially impacting 9 of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (Goals 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 15, and 16).