Following three successful tests in Austria and Belgium, the latest Laboratory Test in Germany concluded the first testing cycle of CBRNE safety technology developed within the TeamUP Project. The test was conducted on 8 October 2025 in the premises of the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg (H-BRS) in Rheinbach, Germany, and brought together technology providers, researchers, and experienced end users to evaluate the emerging radiological, chemical, and explosives detection solutions under controlled laboratory conditions.
The test focused on three complementary systems: the DOVER chemical detector and FemtoMachine vapour generation unit developed by T4i Engineering, and the RapID rapid explosives identification device developed by H-BRS. Participants rotated through three test stations, combining conventional burn tests with hands-on interaction with the new prototypes. This format enabled direct comparison with established methods while gathering valuable operational feedback.
Chemical detection: DOVER and FemtoMachine
For the test with DOVER (1st prototype), the primary aim was to assess usability in laboratory conditions and to gauge the level of training required. This end user training concentrated on system setup, sampling, and use of the Symbiotic Engine software, with acetone serving as a reference substance. Participants recognised the system’s strong detection capabilities and its operating potential in both its handheld and drone-based use (including “autopilot” feature for non-experts). Feedback also highlighted the importance of greater automation, simplified operating modes, and improved connectivity. These elements are already being considered for future prototypes.
The FemtoMachine (1st prototype) was introduced as a supporting tool for vapour generation and calibration. Due to limited time, testing focused mainly on the features of the graphical user interface rather than full operational use with chemicals. Although not operating the device, the end users could have a hands on experience. Participants identified clear value in the system for training and calibration purposes. More extensive hands-on operations will take place in future tests and trials.
Explosives identification with RapID
The RapID device was evaluated for its ability to rapidly distinguish explosive from non-explosive substances and to support first responders during initial assessments. . Participants were impressed by RapID due to its compact size, fast results, and ease of use, especially when compared with traditional burn tests, which were shown to depend heavily on user experience and can lead to misinterpretation.
User feedback focused on a few practical refinements, in particular participants pointed to the handling of the sampling process when wearing protective gloves, the need for clearer alarms, and improved display readability. These comments are already feeding into the next development steps ahead of future tests.
Conclusions and next steps
LT1.3 clearly demonstrated the potential of all three systems, while highlighting the importance of user-centred and holistic design, concise and effective training, and robust sampling procedures. The laboratory test in Rheinbach marked an important milestone for the TeamUP project, translating user feedback into concrete guidance for technical refinement and future validation. These lessons now form a solid foundation for the next steps in development, ensuring that TeamUP solutions continue to mature in line with the real operational needs of first responders across Europe.
Building on the outcomes of the Laboratory Tests, the project now moves into an intensive testing phase. Targeted Usability Tests and a Small-Scale Trial is scheduled for 23–27 February 2026 at Campus VESTA in Ranst, Belgium. These will be followed by two Full-Scale Trials: a week in Lyon, France, from 24–28 August 2026, and a second full-scale week in Athens, Greece from 19–23 October 2026, offering external observers and stakeholders the opportunity to attend, observe, and engage with the exercises. More information will be made available soon.