Argon Electronics provides high-fidelity training simulators to enable safe, cost-effective chemical, biological, radiological nuclear (CBRN) and HazMat training exercises to take place both in open areas and internally at sensitive facilities.

Simulators to Enhance CBRN Training

Argon's advanced CBRN simulation platform enables you to create multiple simulated hazards over time within the same exercise, enabling students to practice how to use a number of different simulated detector technologies.

A modular design concept enables you to start with a basic simulation system and progress to our world renowned PlumeSIM instrumented wide-area and table-top CBRN training systems. This simple but effective approach enables you to ensure your students enjoy what we at Argon call 'real experience training' (RET).

In use by many Military, First Responder, and Nuclear emergency response teams, training facilities, specialist groups and industrial organisations worldwide, our CBRN training systems are making a real difference to response planning and preparedness.

Chemical Warfare - HazMat Training Simulators

Argon is proud of its relationship with many of the world's leading detector manufacturers. We have developed simulators for the JCAD, LCD3.2e, LCD3.3, AP2C, AP4C, RAIDM-100, Hapsite and ChemPro 100 and many other detectors.

The simulation technology employed enables your students to experience the difference between the use of different detector technologies such as ion mobility spectrometry, flame photometry and gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC/MS).

These easy-to-use simulators do not require any consumables (with the exception of batteries), preventative maintenance or regular calibration, assuring you a low ongoing cost of ownership. You can set up most scenarios within 15 minutes and implement chemical warfare agent (CWA) / HazMat exercises in virtually any environment.

Argon simulators enable you to replicate persistency, wind direction, full and partial decontamination and certain simulated detector faults, in addition to depletion of simulated consumables such as hydrogen cylinder or sieve packs.

Electronic simulation sources mean you avoid the need to use chemical simulants and the challenges associated with health, safety and site remediation cost. You can also quickly set up exercises in sensitive locations without causing concern.

The simulators provide you with powerful student monitoring facilities so that you can ensure any potentially costly user errors form part of your after action review and student improvement process, without the risk of costly damage and subsequent lack of availability of your actual detectors.

Radiological Training Simulators  

Argon has alpha, beta and gamma simulators for many of the commonly used radiological detection instruments. Our simulation sources can be used to provide indications on gamma survey simulators, dosimeter simulators and also spectrometer simulators.

Our product range includes simulators for the AN/VDR-2, AN/PDR-77, RDS100, RDS200, FH40G, EPD-Mk2 and many more.

A variety of contamination simulation technologies and simulation probes / instruments ensures you meet your every training need. Argon has also developed simulation spectrometer probes that operate with the SAM935 and SAM940 spectrometers.

Should you have any specific requirement, our extensive and highly capable product development team enjoy a good challenge.

PlumeSIM Wide Area Instrumented CBRN

PlumeSIM has the ability to transform your CBRN / HazMat exercises. This powerful but easy-to use-simulation system and has four modes of operation:

• Planning: lets you prepare your exercise without the need to use any simulation system infrastructure
• Table top mode: allows students to practice their skills in a semi virtual world without leaving the classroom
• Field exercise mode: our advanced player is worn by the student to track their movements in real-time while driving the simulators with the CBRN scenario you have created
• After action review: you can replay all player movement, threat readings and mistakes made throughout the exercise to discuss how effectively your students carried out their mission and define areas for improvement

PlumeSIM has won acclaim from many organisations that now use this system at their CBRN training facilities. The flexible simulation architecture means that it can grow with you as your simulation and training needs advance.

All trademarks acknowledged.

Founded 50 years ago, Bertin Technologies is a worldwide leader company in the development of new technologies and equipment for military and first responders applications.
In 2011, Bertin Corp, the US subsidiary based in Rockville MD, was created to provide and develop innovative products for Defense Teams in America.
Prestigious customers across the Defense industry have already trusted in Bertin Technologies' expertise and products, like the CEA, DGA, EADS, Thales, Nexter…

Bertin Technologies is specialized in CBRN systems and IRS equipment.

CBRN Systems – Chemical Detection and Biological Detection

Dedicated to Civil Security and Armed Forces Teams around the world, Bertin Technologies offers a full range of CBRN systems and identification equipment.

Second Sight® MS: Gas Detection System

Second Sight® MS gas detection system enables detection and visualisation of gas clouds up to 5 kilometres in order to detect chemical warfare agents with high sensitivity and efficiency. This provides a real-time warning with a low rate of false positives to quickly react to chemical attack.

For more information please visit Second Sight website!
Contact: cbrn@bertin.fr
Phone: +33 139 306 160

Coriolis® Recon: Biological Air Sampler

Coriolis Recon® is a portable and ruggedized air sampling equipment for biocontamination control quickly deployed in case of the suspiction of biological attack. Dedicated to base surveillance and critical area monitoring (official buildings, mass gathering events), it has been designed to collect large concentrations of aerosols in the breathable range of 0.5 to 10 µm (up to 6 hours of collection with the long time monitoring option).

For more information please visit Coriolis Recon website!
Contact: coriolis@bertin.fr
Phone: +33 139 306 160

Kim®: In Field Biological Analyser

Kim® is a biological warfare agent identification equipment for rapid and efficient toxins, viruses and bacteria detection. Easy-to-use and quickly deployable, the on-site analysis equipment provides soldiers an early warning of biological hazards in case of biological attack or terrorist assault in just a few minutes.

For more information please visit Kim website!
Contact: kim@bertin.fr
Phone: +33 139 306 160

Intelligence, Recognition and Surveillance Equipment

Bertin Technologies develops UAVs for urban environment surveillance and offers infrared and visible optical sensors for surveillance and critical area protection. The company provides also innovative systems for detection, recognition and pursuit of targets.

Hovereye-Ex: Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV)
with Infrared Imaging for Security Applications

HoverEye® EX unmanned aerial vehicles offers vertical take-off and landing for use in tight spaces. The vehicle enables moving target detection and tracking using high-level image processing. It carries a ground station and a visible or IR camera for daytime or nighttime surveillance.
For more information please visit Hovereye Ex website!
Contact: hovereye@bertin.fr

Vigisight®: Real-time Image Processing Module

Vigisight® automatic image processing module gives detection, recognition and tracking of targets at long distance. With any day or night camera equipped with analog (PAL/NTSC) or digital (IP) video output, it can be used for different security applications: surveillance of camps, harbour surroundings, blue and green borders; Reconnaissance patrol vehicle, UAV or UGV…

For more information please visit Vigisight website!
Contact: vigisight@bertin.fr

Military Systems Development

Bertin Technologies also offers advanced military systems development, services and support. This includes building test beds for a range of equipment and the development of new military technology.

The company also offers pre-implementation studies and modelling services on a consultancy basis for the security, defence and aerospace sectors.

You can also view Bertin Technologies video's on Youtube -

Molecular Products is a global leader in chemical technologies for the removal of carbon dioxide, the generation of oxygen and the filtration of hazardous or harmful emissions.

Globally, Molecular Products supplies a large number of the world’s Navies with products to maintain a breathable atmosphere in submarines, by removing carbon dioxide and generating oxygen. Oxygen production is achieved by a full range of oxygen generators which are stored on submarines for use during maintenance of the central oxygen generation system or when additional oxygen is required.

Molecular Products’ life support technologies extend into CBRN filtration, with the manufacture of leading edge adsorbents for the removal of airborne contaminants, including TICs and TIMs, for both personal and collective protective equipment.

The latest product to be launched by Molecular Products is an innovative new portable, rugged oxygen generator - the ROG. The ROG is an emergency medical grade O2 supply for treatment of casualties at the point of injury. Un-pressurised and non-explosive, the ROG is designed for pre-hospital care in demanding environments.

Other key products areas and markets are: carbon dioxide absorbers for anaesthesia machines in healthcare; CO2 scrubber material for commercial and recreational diving; carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide absorbers for mining and industrial safety.

Molecular Products is a privately owned business with direct subsidiaries in Europe, North America and Asia. Founded in 1924, the company has shown consistent growth through acquisitions and on-going investment in research and development. A highly skilled work force liaising closely with customers around the world has helped establish Molecular Products as a global leader in its field.

ROG - Medical Oxygen Generator

The ROG is an innovative medical oxygen generator designed for medevac via air, sea and ground-based medical support teams.

• Delivers medical grade O2
• Unpressurised and non-explosive
• Portable and lightweight
• Resistant to extremes of temperature
• No maintenance, electricity, mixing or filling
• Live fire, shock and drop tested
• Rugged in design to withstand demanding operational rescue environments
• Cool Touch technology

The ROG is a rugged oxygen generator that gives immediate access to a lifesaving oxygen supply. Designed for pre-hospital casualty care in demanding environments, the ROG is an innovative development in medical technology that will help increase survivability of defence and security forces.

In austere environments, the ROG enables patients to be oxygenated at the point of injury via a safe, reliable and non-explosive source. Small and light enough to be carried in a medical bag, the ROG does not require any maintenance, electricity, mixing or filling. Rugged in design, the ROG is portable, strong, durable and able to withstand robust use in rough terrain or confined spaces.

Unlike compressed medical oxygen cylinders, the ROG can be exposed to extremes of temperatures, operated in any orientation and has an extensive shelf life.

Activated Carbon Adsorbents

Molecular Products’ Chemsorb line of products is an outstanding choice for many critical filtration applications requiring activated carbon filtration media including:

• NIOSH or EN qualified respirator cartridges
• CBRN protection
• Collective protection equipment
• General air filtration
• Toxic Industrial Chemical and Toxic Industrial Material (TIC and TIM) filtration
• Organic vapour, acid gas and amine removal
• Ammonia filtration
• Formaldehyde gas removal, mercury removal
• Non-woven activated carbon filter manufacture

Molecular Products manufactures highly efficient adsorbents for most gases that are not readily adsorbed by un-impregnated activated carbon. The proprietary reagents used to impregnate these high activity carbons have shown superior results for the adsorption of specific airborne contaminants.

For acid gases such as sulphur dioxide, chlorine, and hydrogen sulphide, Chemsorb 1202 is unsurpassed in performance and safety of use. Chemsorb 620 and Chemsorb 1425 are designed for removal of ammonia and organic amines. For formaldehyde removal, Chemsorb 1505 is the most effective adsorbent on the market today. Molecular Products can also develop and manufacture impregnated carbons to fit custom specifications.

MPOG (Multi-Purpose Oxygen Generators)

The MPOG (Multi-Purpose Oxygen Generator) and EO2-30 provide a safe supply of oxygen for critical life support and revitalisation in submarines and safe havens.

Both the MilSpec MPOG and EO2-30:

• use a phosphorous match initiator mechanism that is both easy to use and easy to source
• are in service with NATO navies across the globe
• have a 10 year shelf life with no maintenance requirements
• have been shock and vibration tested to meet the requirements of a submarine environment
• are safer compared to pressurised and liquid oxygen systems
• give 380 litres of breathable oxygen per litre of storage space
• can be deployed in less than a minute

The MilSpec MPOG and EO2-30 use sodium chlorate technology to safely provide >98% purity. As a method of storing oxygen, sodium chlorate is roughly eight times more efficient than compressed air and twice as efficient as compressed oxygen.

Dive Grade Carbon Dioxide Absorbent

Military diving and submarine grade Sofnolime is a carbon dioxide absorbent, optimised for the removal of carbon dioxide from rebreathable gas in diving absorbers and submarines.

Dive grade scrubber material ensuring a safe, breathable air supply is maintained in closed circuit systems. It is optimised for the removal of carbon dioxide from recirculated air / nitrox / trimix in rebreathers and saturation dive systems. Specific benefits to the diver include:

• High intrinsic carbon dioxide capacity
• Low dust formation
• Optimum performance contributing to a safer, longer dive

Three grades are available: D, L and S. The main differences between the three grades are particle size, shape, moisture content and testing regime. These grades also have differing absorption characteristics under various environmental conditions.

Hi-Cap Absorber

The Hi-Cap is a large scale absorber with proven capabilities for CO2 and CO absorption in life critical applications such as submarines.

The absorber design provides the increased use efficiency intrinsic to the larger scale absorber unit. It also provides a package that is easily handled and stores efficiently for long periods of time without degradation of performance or requiring any maintenance. The materials used are all long term compatible with the absorber.

The weight of the unit is designed to be within the handling capability of the target users. The units are built of high grade polypropylene plastics that do not contain additives likely to give rise to highly toxic fumes associated with some inhibited materials. The units are sealed with a clip top and bottom, to ensure long storage life protection from environmental contamination as well as keeping the contents fresh.

CASPA (Carbon Dioxide Self Powered Absorber)

The CASPA (Carbon Dioxide Self Powered Absorber) is a self-contained carbon dioxide absorption unit intended for the removal of respired CO2 in a confined space. The unit combines hi-tech battery and fan components with a carefully designed, volumetrically efficient, CO2 absorption material. The units are supplied with removable seals to ensure storage life in survival chambers. No annual maintenance or service interventions are required.

BiP Solutions was established in 1984 to facilitate business between the public and private sectors.

Defence Contracts Online

Through a 16-year partnership with the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) as official publishers of their contract information, BiP provides a range of defence-specific products and services to assist private sector businesses to successfully compete in the defence marketplace.

MOD Defence Contract Information Services

MOD Defence Contracts Online (DCO - www.contracts.mod.uk) is the official online source of UK Ministry of Defence contract opportunities, giving private sector suppliers access to all UK MOD contracts of all values, in one place. Access to MOD DCO is completely FREE and registered suppliers can search for contracts 24/7.

By registering for free and entering keywords/phrases into their unique supplier profile, registrants will also receive tailored daily email alerts directly to their inbox containing the latest UK MOD contracts that match their defence product and service offering.

The aim of the MOD Defence Contracts Online service is to guide organisations through some of the steps they will need to follow to sell to the UK Ministry of Defence, while providing a gateway to new contract opportunities for both large and small organisations wishing to compete for defence business, either directly as a prime contractor or indirectly as a sub-contractor.

To register your business today, visit www.contracts.mod.uk and follow the simple supplier registration process.

Defence Contracts Bulletin

Published in association with two key UK Ministry of Defence procurement agencies – Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) and the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) – MOD Defence Contracts Bulletin (MOD DCB) is read by organisations that are serious about engaging effectively with the UK MOD as a supplier, as well as by the UK MOD’s own buying community.

Through this fortnightly publication, readers gain access to a wealth of UK MOD contract opportunities and key defence market intelligence, including:

• All UK MOD contracts valued above £10,000;
• A unique insight into the UK MOD’s spending plans;
• The UK MOD’s ongoing and upcoming equipment projects;
• Future UK MOD requirements;
• UK MOD procurement policies;
• Key defence industry analysis and features;
• Exclusive interviews and commentary from key UK MOD and defence personnel.

Defence Contracts International

Defence Contracts International (DCI) is the premium source of information on defence contract opportunities and a world leader in providing key defence and security contracts in the UK, Europe and worldwide.

Our dedicated business intelligence research department search over 400 independent sources every day, and we receive direct feeds from the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) and Fedcon to provide unrivalled defence contract information that keeps your business on top of what’s happening in global defence markets.

Defence is one of the world’s most lucrative industry sectors, with thousands of defence and security contracts published each year. With a DCI subscription, you can also enjoy direct access to contracts from other related sectors, such as:

• Homeland Security
• Humanitarian Aid
• Counter Terrorism
• Emergency Services
• Aerospace
• Aviation

Access to these further defence-related contract opportunities will undoubtedly allow you to further expand your business within existing and new defence marketplaces.

Other key benefits from having a DCI subscription include:

• Your own interactive dashboard, allowing you to flag contracts of interest and track opportunities for tendering;
• A unique supplier profile, tailored to your exact needs to ensure you receive only the most relevant opportunities;
• Daily email alerts containing the latest contracts published, along with live alerts for new contracts published throughout the day – keeping you at the forefront of new opportunities;
• Dedicated Account Management throughout your subscription year*, providing the best service possible and ensuring you receive maximum return from your investment;
• A gateway to further contract opportunities of a similar nature, from non-defence buyers.

DCI is ideal for organisations of all sizes, from SMEs seeking defence business opportunities in their own regional areas to major multinational players looking to capture as large a share as possible of the global defence market.

Annual subscriptions start from as little as £280 per year.

To find out more about how Defence Contracts International can help your business grow, simply visit www.dcicontracts.com today, or to speak with a Defence Business Growth Advisor call 0845 270 7092. We’re open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

*Our Account Management Team fully support subscriptions over the value of £500 only.

Defence Procurement Events and Exhibitions

BiP Solutions also delivers a range of defence-focused exhibitions and training events throughout the UK each year.

The Defence Procurement Research, Technology and Exportability 2013 exhibition is a one-day event that will showcase innovative defence procurement for buyers and suppliers.

Taking place on Wednesday 20 November 2013 at the University of the West of England Exhibition and Conference Centre, DPRTE 2013 will provide the buyer and supplier communities with a unique opportunity to interact across a single platform in order to enhance effective collaboration and competition in all areas of defence research and technology.

Delegates will discuss the future shape of the defence sector, as represented by:

• Defence Agencies
• Central Government
• Academic Institutions
• UK MOD Project Teams
• European Partners
• Prime Contractors
• 1st and 2nd Tier Sub-Contractors
• SMEs and Micro SMEs

Exhibiting suppliers will enjoy:

• Promoting their capabilities to over 1000 buyers as well as end users;
• Identifying opportunities to transfer technology into new markets;
• Exploring international markets;
• Identifying potential partners and funding opportunities;
• Engaging with academia to understand the latest technology concepts.

For more information on this unique and innovative showcase event, visit www.dprte.co.uk

Our Procurement Advice and Support Service (PASS) is the training arm of the business and delivers a Selling To Defence workshop in various UK locations.

The one-day workshop aims to inform delegates of the vision for the future of UK defence and the implications of the ongoing changes within UK MOD procurement, including the recently announced ten-year equipment spending plan, with the ultimate goal being to assist delegates in developing their strategy and defining processes to win business within the defence sector.

Topics covered include:

• Understanding the UK Procurement Regulations;
• Selling to Defence – the UK MOD’s Perspective;
• Defence and Security Exporting – Support for Small Businesses:
• The Do’s and Don’ts of Tendering

The event is fully supported by the UK MOD, with dedicated speakers from Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) as well as the UK Trade & Investment Defence & Security Organisation (UKTI DSO).

To find out more about the Selling To Defence workshop, as well as dates and venues, visit www.passprocurement.com/events

As a manufacturer of decontamination equipment, OWR has been setting the standards for CBRN defence and civil protection for more than 50 years. Using modern techniques and user-friendly application systems, OWR develops and builds efficient mobile decontamination solutions for its customers, offering them a complete service from product development to training and after sales service. With a full range of products ranging from small hand-held spray applicators such as the Cobra, to the containerised multi purpose decontamination systems such as the MPD 100i, OWR can offer a solution to fit the needs of the customer, and with a design team constantly developing new and innovative products, OWR is setting the standards for the future of decontamination and helping to provide a safer and more certain future for the world.

Compact Decontamination Equipment
COBRA Decontamination Spray Unit

The COBRA is a 0.4 ltrs decontamination spray unit used for emergency decontamination or disinfection. Giving a spray area of approximately 11m², the COBRA can be filled with any liquid decontamination or disinfection solution and has been developed in close cooperation with both military and civil customers as part of their personal protective equipment for CBRN operations. The hand held unit contains a patented pressure pump system with which the operator can quickly creates a pressure to allow the liquid to be sprayed. The COBRA has a metal stainless steel body and chemical resistant seals and requires no special preparation before use.

The COBRA comes either as a stand alone unit supplied with a carrying bag which clips to a belt, or can be incorporated into kit supplied in a robust plastic carry case.

Light, Transportable Thermal Fogging System - DECOFOG

The Decofog is a light, transportable thermal fogging system designed to apply decontamination solutions as a fog. It is simple to use, has no mechanical parts and can be set up for use in seconds. Based on “jet-engine technology” it uses hot air to vaporise a solution and turn it into a fog with particles of 1 to 4 microns. The Decofog is robust and been designed to be operator friendly with large grip handles. It is supplied standard with an operators harness and metal travel case. Using chemically resistant parts it is suitable for use with aggressive chemicals and needs little maintenance. The Decofog is used by multiple NATO countries and has the NATO Stock Number NSN 4230-01-499-5612.

Decontamination and Disinfection Fogging Device - FOGBOOSTER

The FOGBOOSTER is the new generation of decontamination and disinfection fogging devices. By using compressed air combined with an especially designed nozzle, decontamination or disinfection fluid is microscopically atomized to form particles on a micro-scale basis to produce a highly effective dry mist or fog. The FOGBOOSTER produces a micro-film mist which covers all surfaces and gets into all gaps and joints, detoxifying or decontaminating all surfaces. The Fogbooster is lightweight (approx 6 kg) quiet and highly mobile and can either use standard compressed air bottles or a compressor to run.

Fast Response Mobile Decontamination System - SMGD RACCOON

The SMGD has been designed as a fast response mobile decontamination system. Completely self contained with its own generator, diesel and decontamination solution tanks, it is a compact decontamination unit for the application of water-free decontaminants when decontaminating vehicles, large equipment, infrastructure, roads and high-value equipment. The system is based on a low pressure spraying system and comes complete with decon spray lances and an independent high pressure cleaning unit for pre-cleaning.

The generator of the SMGD creates enough power to run the decontamination system and provide external power for the independent sprayer and lights. Designed to be transported to the decontamination site on a pick-up, once un-loaded it can be easily moved easily by one person whilst still running. The unit is ready to use within 1 minute and needs only to be switched on.

Multi Purpose Decontamination System - DEDAS

The DEDAS is a universal mixing unit which can be programmed to mix all commercially known decontamination solutions. The patented low-pressure system allows the mixing of emulsions, foam and diluted solutions for decontamination purposes, in either small or large quantities. It has a capacity of up to 200l/min and can even be used with seawater. The DEDAS can be used as a stand-alone unit but is used as the heart of the OWR MPD 100 multi purpose decontamination system.

SURF-EX Decontamination Unit

The SURF-Ex is a decontamination unit which uses industrial vacuuming technology combined with a spray-extraction system to clean and decontaminate surfaces of CBRN, HazMat and explosive material. The SURF-Ex can be used to vacuum all types of dry hazardous dust without danger to the operator due to its comprehensive filtering and dust collection system. Its can also be used to clear up liquids and uses a spray-extraction system to decontaminate and clean surfaces of hazardous and dangerous chemicals. By using GD-6 with the spray extraction system, the surfaces of sensitive equipment can be decontaminated without risk. Using comprehensive selection of inter-changeable vacuuming and spray heads ensures that the SURF-EX can be used to tackle multiple decontamination tasks.

The SURF-EX was successfully demonstrated in Fukushima, Japan and was successfully used to clean vehicles, equipment and external surfaces of radiation.

Multi Purpose Decontamination Units - MPD

The Multi Purpose Decontamination Unit or MPD is a complete decontamination system Contained in a 20ft ISO container a standard unit can decontaminate 120 persons per hour, 20 light vehicles per hour, or 6000m² of terrain decontamination. Despite its large capacity, the MPD100 is a highly mobile unit containing 3000 ltrs of water and can be operated using 4 personnel.

The MPD 100 has recently been upgraded to include the UAM (Universal Application Module). The MPD 100i can apply ready mixed decontamination solution using low pressure technology and offers an enhanced decontamination capacity.

GD-6
The decontamination solution GD-6 is a ready to use patented decontamination solution which is used to decontaminate chemical warfare agents. It is especially effective when used with OWR low pressure application technology, but can be used with any spray unit and fogging units.

Proengin has developed biological and chemical warfare agents field detectors using flame spectrophotometry. The well-known and world widely used AP2C has proven the capacity of that technology to be the most reliable on the field with the lowest false alarm rate and the simplest ease of use.

Chemical Detection
The New Extended Range Field Handheld Chemical Detector AP4C

New developments such as the AP4C have extended the capacity of that technology to include chemical warfare agents and toxic industrial material in a simultaneous mode. There is no limitation in number of gas detected by the AP4C. All nerve agents, all blister agents and all blood agents can be detected by AP4C within the requirements of response time and sensitivity of NATO recommendations.

The AP4C has extended the range of chemicals that can be detected by Proengin chemical detectors. All dangerous compounds containing Sulfur, Phosphorous, Arsenic and/or HNO chemical bond can be detected in a simultaneous way. Of course, as for the AP2C, the AP4C has the capacity to work in very severe environmental conditions (explosive areas) and the measurements are unaffected by high humidity levels or by the presence of other organic chemical compounds such as paint.

The AP4C technology allows the simultaneous detection of an unlimited number of gas and the identification of the chemical elements that constitute these chemicals. It is therefore possible to detect impure agents or chemicals manufactured by terrorists that would not fit into traditional libraries of other detectors.

Moreover AP4C will detect without upgrade new agents that will be developed in the future, as well as still not precisely known agents like Novichok agents (or Non Traditional agents).

The response time is among the shortest on the market, but what makes the AP4C unique is the recovery time after a positive detection.
The AP4C is therefore the chemical detector that has the highest level of availability of the field.

Grateful to its remarkable performances, AP4C has been derived on other detectors, dedicated to the following uses:

• use on reconnaissance vehicles and battle tanks
• use aboard naval ships
• use for critical buildings and areas protection

AP4C-V For use on Reconnaissance Vehicles and Battle Tanks

Based on the same detection technology and the same internal design, air entrance has been designed to face high wind: AP4C-V is able to take in representative sample of the outside air, even with a direct cumulated wind and speed of 100 km/h. Data are shown on easy to understand control box or directly on the control computer of the vehicle.
Sensitivity, short time to answer, low false alarm rate and short recovery time are the same as for AP4C, making AP4C-V the perfect detector for all kinds of reconnaissance missions and battle field exploration.

AP4C-F For use Aboard Naval Ships

At sea, ANEP-57 recommendations stipulate the availability of both fixed and mobile means of chemical detection. As AP4C is the perfect mobile chemical detector for contamination control, the use of AP4C-F provides the naval ships with reliable and efficient chemical detection. This ruggedized detector shows the same detection performances as the AP4C, with 2 supplementary features. It produces its consumable gas by electrolysis, thus lightening daily maintenance, and more than an alarm, is able to trigger the ventilation of the vessels, thus protecting the citadel from the chemical danger. The AP4C-F is able to be operated on open deck, with the same performances.

AP4C-F For Critical Buildings and Areas Protection

National palaces, courts and parliaments are more and more equipped with fixed chemical detectors. AP4C-F, being able to be operated on naval citadels, is of course able to provide the same detection and protection on terra firma, for this kind of critical buildings.

BIOLOGICAL DETECTION
The MAB, A New Generation of Biological Field Detector

MAB has the unique capacity of detecting and categorizing biological particles with a proven extremely low false alarm rate and the unique capacity to discriminate dangerous or suspicious biological particles such as Anthrax spores from natural background.

The very liable MAB has been designed to be mounted on track vehicles. It is insensitive to diesel exhausts.

As all Proengin products and thanks to the flame spectrophotometry technology, MAB is running in very severe outside conditions, shows the lowest false alarm rates (negative and positive) and requires reduced maintenance. It shows such a high level of availability.

BIOLOGICAL AND CHEMICAL DETECTION TOGETHER
AP4C-FB For Critical Buildings and Areas Protection

Government premises, courts and parliaments are also more and more equipped with fixed chemical and biological detectors. AP4C-FB combines both chemical detection as for the AP4C-F, and biological alarm as for the MAB. This detector may be associated with a radiological probe, featuring the all in one full CBRN detector.

AP4C-VB

PROENGIN has recently launched AP4C-VB, the first low-side chemical and biological alarm system for mobile platform.

ULIS’ thermal imaging technology brings distinct advantages such as low weight, low power consumption and high image resolution to military gear, including handheld goggles, thermal weapon sights, and thermal cameras used in ground vehicle situation awareness. The company currently supplies its thermal image sensors to the French army’s FELIN program and Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFV), in particular the Nexter. ULIS is also participating in two European anti-surface missile programs.

ULIS’ thermal imaging sensors rely on amorphous silicon microbolometer technology to convert infrared (IR) radiation into visible images.  This enables targets to be identified during the day and night, in adverse weather conditions and over distances of several kilometers, depending on the optics in the thermal camera.

Easy to use high-resolution thermal imaging products that solve SWaP-C (Size, Weight, Power and Cost) reductions mark the qualities of the ULIS brand.

European Leader in Thermal Image Sensors
for Military Applications

A subsidiary of Sofradir, ULIS specializes in the design and manufacture of high quality thermal image sensors for both commercial and military applications. It is the second largest producer of thermal image sensors (microbolometers). ULIS offers a targeted range of microbolometers that are the key component of many top name thermal imaging equipment sold across Europe, Asia and North America.

The high spatial uniformity of ULIS’ microbolometer technology, a key parameter for high-resolution imaging, makes its IR imaging sensors particularly effective for military applications, allowing soldiers to locate and identify targets faster and more accurately during the day and night, and through fog and smoke.

By relying on amorphous silicon, a robust and reliable semiconductor material proven for its industrial production capacity, ULIS achieves large-scale manufacturing, which is one of its differentiators in the market.  This large-scale production capacity is enabling it to meet the growing demand from commercial and defense markets for IR equipment that consumes little power, lightweight and affordable.

Integration of Thermal Imaging Sensors into Military Equipment

ULIS is active in security and surveillance, energy management and in the thermography, defense and automotive markets. Hundreds of thousands of its products are used to detect threats and thereby protect property, industrial sites, national borders and commuter systems as well as military personnel in combat zones.

Size, weight, low power consumption and lower cost reductions drive ULIS innovations enabling the company to address new trends in energy efficiency for building automation and advanced driving assistance systems for vehicles.

Military Infrared Imaging Sensors - Microbolometer Technology

Thermal image sensors are made up of pixels that absorb thermal radiation. Each pixel acts like a thermometer. Each one will then increase in temperature, whereupon the temperature difference can be measured.

ULIS’ microbolometer technology is based on this temperature variation measurement. This method of measuring temperature variation means that the sensors using ULIS' microbolometer technology do not need cooling, unlike other technologies used to produce high sensitivity IR detectors, such as Indium Antimonide. These other IR technologies require cooling to maintain the IR chip at a low temperature to counter dark current, which keeps the IR detector working efficiently. Foregoing the necessity of a cooling system makes ULIS’ MEMS-based (microelectromechanical systems) sensors more affordable and highly suitable for large-volume applications. These include thermographic cameras used in building inspection and preventive maintenance, surveillance cameras, enhanced night vision driving and military applications, including handheld goggles.

Growth and Development
ULIS was founded in 2002. It is a spin-off from CEA-Leti, a leading European micro- and nanotechnologies R&D institution and Sofradir, the global leader in cooled IR detectors. ULIS began operations with a legacy of more than 40 years of infrared technology know-how and a long-established silicon manufacturing infrastructure. Located in Veurey-Voroize, France (close to major hi-tech center Grenoble), ULIS employs 160 staff and has access to close to 500 scientists and engineers from the CEA-Leti with which it continues to have a strong R&D partnership.

ULIS is a firm on the rise. It has more than 500,000 products deployed in the field. It has experienced double-digit compound growth since its founding. The company was among one of the first to deploy its thermal image sensors in cameras used to conduct health monitoring at Asian airports during the 2003 SARS outbreak. More recently, infrared cameras using ULIS products have been used to detect high body temperatures of passengers at airport terminals who might have contracted Ebola. Today, its product lines include military-grade IR sensors that are used in handheld goggles, thermal cameras for ground vehicle situation awareness and other military gear.

ULIS’ Large Format XGA Thermal Image Sensors Offer Higher Resolution and More Cost Savings

Similar to all manufacturers, the pressure to lower costs is unrelenting. Reducing the pixel pitch size while improving gains in performance has been ULIS’ main thrust.  It has accomplished a steady reduction in the pixel pitch size of its IR imaging sensors from 35 micron to 25 micron and then to 17-micron. ULIS was the first to introduce a 17-micron 1024 x 768 IR imaging sensors to the market. This megapixel product remains one of the largest thermal image sensor formats available.  It doubled the number pixels in the array over earlier models. With smaller pixel pitch sizes come two major advantages:

• Improved image resolution, as one can squeeze more pixels onto an IR imaging sensor.
• Smaller IR imaging sensors, which benefit system integrators by freeing up design space and bring cost-savings to the overall IR system.

New Pico Gen2 brand products

ULIS Pico Gen2 products bring extra performance to military gear and professional security and surveillance cameras. The brand offers important SWaP-enhanced advantages to military equipment needing extended infrared detection range, fast target detection and tracking, while keeping power consumption low.  Several Pico products are already deployed in European and North American airborne and land vehicle applications, as well as in anti-surface missile programs.

The Pico brand also makes higher thermal image resolution simpler and faster to install in professional cameras. This is due to its use of standardized communication protocols that are compatible with commercial camera systems.

Cost-saving measures
ULIS has pioneered technologies to enable customers to have price-competitive end-products. Early on, ULIS switched from metallic to ceramic IR sensor packaging that brought significant cost-savings. In conjunction with the CEA-Leti, ULIS has developed PLP (Pixel Level Packaging), a new wafer-based vacuum packaging. With this disruptive technology, ULIS can manufacture its pixels using the same semiconductor process step as the packaging. This makes the whole production cycle more efficient. The new packaging technique is expected to bring an additional 30% in cost-savings for end-customers.

All of these advances progressively make ULIS’ IR products more affordable and accessible to a wide-range of industry applications and attractive to procurers of military equipment increasingly turning to products that have their roots in the commercial world.
For more information, visit: http://www.ulis-ir.com

i-bodi Technology is an innovative leader in project research, development and manufacture.  We are specialists in developing bespoke products from customer defined specifications, with particular experience in computer controlled test platforms for CBRN protective clothing and respirator evaluation.

i-bodi  Technology has developed heated and sweating, anthropometrically correct mannequins that can bend, walk and run;  head-forms with soft polymer skins that fully articulate and breathe, can be heated and sweat;  they can have internal cameras for fogging evaluation and can mimic speech.

With over 20 years of industry experience, we specialise in providing intelligent solutions for both industry and large government organisations by developing products from initial concepts through to prototyping and manufacture.

Fogging and Respiratory Simulation System - FARSS

Fogging and Respiratory Simulation System is a computer controlled, sweating, heated head form that has been developed by i-bodi for a UK research agency to evaluate fogging and ice propagation in air crew, military and first  responder respirators.

Benefits include:

• Accurate Programmable Sweat Rates
• Purpose Developed Acuity Screen To Maximise Analysed Area
• Selectable Sweat Zones
• Humidified Breathing Machine
• Intensity And Area of Misting Analysed
• Highly Accurate Repeatable Testing
• Variable Breathing Rates
• Integrated Environmental Chamber

Automated Head Form CBplus - AHFC

i-bodi Technology developed the articulated, carbon composite head form and upper torso, as part of the CBplus Mannequin Technology System on request from a Canadian Government Agency.

The headform was adapted to run as a portable stand alone system for use in smaller test chambers and temporary environmental analysis tents. It can also be used in conjunction with a Digital Breathing Machine and software, the DBM-01.

Digital Breathing Machine - DBM 01

The DBM-01 has been developed as a stand alone unit with a USB connection to a PC and for use in conjunction with head forms or mannequins to simulate live participant breathing in respirator and hard-wear evaluation studies and similar applications.

The DBM-01 is purpose built from components to allow external exposure to harsh environments and internal exposure to contaminated air supplies.

Respirator Testing Head Form V2 - RTHF V2

This respirator Testing Head Form has been designed as a test platform for simulating the realistic movements and breathing routines of combat field operatives.  It has been developed to provide fully controllable and repeatable trials with the clear objective of analysing the functionality of respirators.

Any combination of movements and breathing patterns can be used, giving the user complete control of any test configuration.

Chemically Resistant Automated Mannequin and Head Form CBplus - CRAM

The CBplus Mannequin Technology System was developed by i-bodi Technology to a specification provided by Defence Research and Development Canada as part of the wider CBplus project. A light weight, chemically resistant, articulated mannequin, capable of performing test sequences comprising of any combination of ten pre-programmed moves for periods of up to six hours in chemically challenging environments.

Also included in the mannequin system was an interchangeable carbon composite torso for use in testing body clothing, headwear and respirators.

FASTMAN (Fully Articulated, Anthropometrically Correct, Sweating, Thermo-regulated, Mannequin)

FASTMAN is an anthropometrically designed carbon composite mannequin that has a heated surface and the ability to sweat.  The mannequin is computer controlled and when attached to its’ drive frame it can be made to run and walk at different speeds.

It can also simulate different positions including; sit, stretch, kneel and reach.  The Mannequin, Drive Frame and Transport Trolley have been constructed from a range of materials chosen for their resistance to common threats both simulated and real, as well as cleaning agents.

The company’s range of service offerings include; Business Winning & Proposal Generation, Project Mobilisation, Control & Delivery, Systems & Software Engineering, Supportability Engineering, Support Solution Design Service, Safety Engineering & Assurance, Training Analysis, Design & Delivery, Human Factors, Operations Analysis & Modelling and Cyber Security.

Persides

Persides is an established and growing force in the defence, security and energy markets offering high calibre services for a diverse client base.

It is increasingly difficult for an organisation to predict exactly the skills and capacity it needs to deliver its dynamic and evolving objectives. Persides offers high quality management and engineering services to supplement client capability and enhance performance where required. Services offered include;

• Business Winning & Proposal Generation
• Project Mobilisation, Control & Delivery
• Systems & Software Engineering
• Supportability Engineering - Integrated Logistic Support (ILS), Reliability & Maintainability
• Support Solution Design Service
• Safety Engineering & Assurance
• Training Analysis, Design & Delivery
• Human Factors
• Operations Analysis & Modelling, Whole-Life Cost (WLC), Life Cycle Cost (LCC)

Persides has built its reputation on the foundations of a core set of principles which align to an approach of delivering Value, Trust, Excellence in support of our Customers. Persides provides a multi-layered approach to the way it contracts its services. Understanding the constraints faced by our clients, whether they be finance or policy driven, Persides tailors its’ offering to counter these constraints and is always prepared to share risk and accountability.

Our Key Products and Services include:

Key Land Based Equipment Programmes

• CBRN  - DE&S /Industry

Persides staff have directly developed various ILS deliverables including the ILS Strategy, ILSP, SOW, Use Study for Man-Portable Chemical Agent Detector (MCAD), Lightweight Chemical Agent Detector (LCAD), Collective Protection Chemical Agent Monitor (COLPRO CAM), Integrated Biological Detection System (IBDS), Maritime Biological Detection System (MBDS) and the Aircrew Protection Equipment and Detection (APED) programme.

• WCSP – DE&S

Medium Armoured Tracks Team (MATT) Warrior Capability Sustainment Programme (WCSP) – R&M Analysis: Persides conducted an independent review to re-evaluate and verify current MoD reliability figures from the WCSP System Requirements Document (SRD) and develop a generic WCSP reliability model to inform potential future requirements.

• PECOC DE&S

Personal Equipment and Common Operational Clothing (PECOC) for the UK MOD Defence Clothing Integrated Project Team (DC IPT) – Persides were responsible for the development of the ILS deliverables in particular in the ILSP, Use Study and the SOW. The aim of this Use Study was to provide an overview of the PECOC programme and the current logistic management and sustainment of the existing Combat Soldier (CS) 95 system.

• FIST - Future Integrated Soldier Technology - Thales Land and Joint

Persides worked as a Future Integrated Soldier Technology (FIST) tier one partner within the Thales Prime Contract Management Office (PCMO) during the Assessment and Delivery phases of the core programme and numerous Urgent operational Requirements (UORs).  Persides was responsible for the definition and delivery of the Support Solution with a particular focus on implementation of Operational Availability-based solutions.
Persides has conducted ILS programmes, developing and delivering support solutions for a number of FIST procured equipment’s. In addition to our work within the PCMO, we have provided support to suppliers of equipment into the FIST programme including Vectronix-Wilcox, Shield and Qioptiq.

Services:
Business Winning and Proposal Generation

Persides has a proven track record of winning and delivering defence and security programmes on behalf of a range of suppliers from small businesses to large multi-national prime contractors. Our expertise in business capture, bid management and programme delivery will ensure that you set out with a winning strategy that ensures a high probability of winning tenders and subsequently delivering profitable programmes to cost, time and performance.

Whatever the stage of the acquisition lifecycle, Persides has vast experience across all domains of programme delivery. We will assist you in making your bid strong in every area, and ensure that your buyer has high confidence in your ability to meet and even exceed their expectations.

Military Systems and Software Engineering

We have gained our wide engineering experience through participation in and management of multiple hardware, software and integration programmes where our staff have been fully committed to the delivery of innovative solutions in support of our customers. Our engineering capabilities include:

• Requirements and System Architecture development
• Software code development and verification
• Systems Integration
• Verification and Validation of both Hardware and Software programmes

Supportability Engineering

Persides has an extensive depth and breadth of capability and experience which enables the successful management and execution of Supportability Programmes. Our Supportability Engineering /ILS capability includes the following disciplines:

• Contractor Logistic Support
• Availability and capability contracting solutions
• Support Solution performance based modelling and simulation
• CONDO Management
• Supportability trade-off analysis
• Technical Documentation

 Support Solution Design Service

Persides has established a structured and proven approach to the design of support service solutions. The approach minimises likely exposure to potential risks and increases the likelihood of meeting contractual service and availability requirements. The approach combines service sector good practice techniques with Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE). The activities within this approach are tailored to suit project specific needs and applied by Persides consultants working closely with client organisation personnel. Example activities include; Stakeholder Analysis & Management, Value Proposition, Requirements Analysis & Modelling, Behaviour & Functional Analysis, Qualitative and Quantitative modelling, Structured Solution Design and Solution Test & Acceptance.

Safety Engineering and Assurance

Persides recognises that robust safety management is a demanding responsibility and dependent upon the application of sound analytical, creative and engineering skills, based on extensive technical and domain knowledge. Understandably, there is not one safety management approach that fits all situations and customers have very specific requirements to consider. Our safety specialists are suitably qualified, experienced and dynamic engineers with an unwavering focus on attention to detail and customer needs.

Our core safety knowledge and capabilities include:

• Def Stan 00-56 and 05-123, POSMS, JSP375, 418, 430, 454, 553, 602 and 815
• Independent Safety Advice and Audit
• Hazard identification, analysis and management using CassandraTM
• Safety Case construction and Safety Case Reporting

Human Factors and Training Analysis, Design and Delivery

Our Human Factors (HF) experts specialise in the application of UK MoD and US DoD HF standards such as Def-Stan 00-250 and Mil-Std-1472G, as well as the wider HF applicable standards such as Def-Stan 23-09 for Generic Vehicle Architecture.

We have applied our Training experience to develop a range of innovative tools to enhance the analysis and design process including an analysis methodology which evaluates the fidelity requirements of task characteristics, rather than of the tasks themselves. This innovative approach supports accurate quantification of low and high fidelity training options, increasing the cost-effectiveness of the selected training solution.

We meet the challenges of Training in today’s environment by providing:

• Expertise in Training Needs Analysis and Human Factors Integration
• Highly experienced Training design specialists
• Fully qualified and experienced Training instructors

Military Operations Analysis and Modelling

For any Defence or Commercial project, it is vital that a clear understanding is developed at an early stage of how costs will arise across the full system life-cycle, covering all Defence Lines of Development (DLoD). Persides has both the expertise and experience to quantify the variability and sensitivity associated with Whole-Life Cost (WLC) and Availability drivers, to determine potential risks of taking candidate solutions forward to maturity and in-service support, and delivering these key customer requirements. Exploitation of the Witness™ toolset enables dynamic process simulation providing a highly flexible and scalable capability for business process, cost and sensitivity analyses, including:

• Service based modelling techniques
• Operational Availability vs. cost
• Training regime effectiveness and cost vs. fielding and operational sustainment requirements
• Cost of production vs. capability fielding profiles
• Optimisation of support infrastructure solutions against affordability targets

Customers

Persides provides services to customer and industry organisations in the defence, security and energy markets. Example customers include; UK MoD, DE&S, Dstl, BAE Systems, Boeing, Thales, Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Kelvin Hughes, General Dynamics, Vectronix Inc, Force Protection Europe, Jankel  Armouring and Selex ELSAG.

Personnel

Persides capabilities are delivered by a complementary blend of high calibre ex-Military, academic, professionally qualified and experienced personnel who are equipped with leading edge tools and processes. Persides employees are selected and tailored for specific roles based on their technical expertise, experience and personal skills. If you are interested in a career with Persides visit our careers pages www.persides.com/careers

BBI Detection is part of the BBI Group, a leading provider of rapid, point of care systems for a range of applications. BBI Detection is a world leader in the development and manufacture of rapid tests to detect explosives and biothreat agents. Our unique access to high quality antibodies means that the performance of our products is assured, and our innovative sampling device -
IMASS - provides a simple and fast route to accurate results.

With secure facilities in the US and UK, and over 25 years’ experience in the development of assays, we are ideally placed to serve the needs of military and first responder markets worldwide. Additionally, our access to high quality biothreat antibodies and a full spectrum of sampling technologies gives us the ability to offer a direct route to effective assays.

IMASS™ – A unique detection platform for
military and 1st responders

BBI Detection has developed an “Integrated Multiplex Assay and Sampling System” – IMASS™, to sample and identify biothreats or explosives in white powder or liquid incidents. The IMASS™ platform provides the ability to rapidly sample powders liquids or surfaces using the integrated sampling sponge, once the sampling has been completed and the device is run, the sample is transferred simultaneously to all of the integrated assay strips. The IMASS™ was specifically designed with simplistic functionality and a robust ergonomic design to give end users the quickest and most reliable hand held assay and sampling system available.

The IMASS™ is available in a Biothreat Detection format and an Explosive Detection Format.

Advantages over current systems used include:

• Integrated Sampling and Assessment
• Ease of use (particularly when wearing full protective equipment
• Results in minutes
• Increase in sampling area
• Robustness
• Sample retention and recovery
• Device can be decontaminated after sampling
• Low training burden
• No power requirements

Biothreat Detection IMASS™

The Biothreat Detection IMASS™ device provides a crucial advance in rapid testing, particularly for ‘white powder’ incidents. The device is used to directly sample powders, surfaces or liquids using an integrated sponge, then eight immunoassay strips are run simultaneously from the sample giving results for eight biothreat agents in 15 minutes. Its robust design* means that the IMASS™ device is straightforward to run and to read, even while wearing full protective equipment.
*Licensed from the UK Secretary of State for Defence

KEY FEATURES

• Detects Anthrax
• Detects Ricin and other toxins
• Results in 15 minutes
• Easy to use in full protective equipment
• Can sample surfaces, powders or liquids
• No power requirements

CodeAgent Detected ANXBacillus anthracis (Anthrax)RICRicin ToxinBTXBotulinum Toxin A/BTULFrancisella tularensisPLAYersina pestis (Plague)BRUBrucella sppBTKBurkholderia mallei (Glanders)SEBStaphylococcal Enterotoxin B

Explosive Detection IMASS™

The Explosive Detection IMASS™ provides a crucial advance in rapid explosive detection for military, police, border and other first responders. The device is used to directly sample surfaces, solids and liquids using an integrated sponge. A number of test strips are then run simultaneously from the sample, giving visual results for military explosives and multiple homemade explosive components in 3 minutes. Its unique rugged design* means that the IMASS™ device is straightforward to run and to read, even while in full protective equipment.
*Licensed from the UK Secretary of State for Defence

KEY FEATURES

• Detects Military Explosives: TNT/RDX/PETN and their derivatives such as Semtex, C3, C4 and HMX
• Detects Homemade Explosive Components: Ammonium, Nitrate and Sugar
• Results in 3 minutes
• Easy to use in full protective equipment
• No power requirement
• Can sample surfaces, solids and liquids

CodeExplosive Component DetectedTTNTRRDX/RDX derivativesPPETN/PETN derivativesAAmmoniumNNitrateSSugar

© 2016 BBI Detection Ltd. All rights reserved.
BBI Detection™ and IMASS™ are trademarks of BBI Detection Ltd.
The IMASS™ device is manufactured and sold under licence from the UK Secretary of State
for Defence. Pat. No. GB2460956 and US12/999,064. Pat. Pend: EP09766120.1
The development of the explosive detection IMASS™ device was funded by the UK Ministry of Defence as part of a Dstl R&D project

Dry and Liquid Explosive Test Kits and Narcotic test Kits

BBI Detection also distributes a unique product portfolio of simple to use, rapid and low cost solutions for the presumptive identification of potential threat items in a variety of scenarios such as screening at secure checkpoints or the assessment of suspect powders or materials in clandestine labs.

• The Dry Explosive Test Kit (DETK) is a single use colorimetric-based test kit for the presumptive identification of military grade explosives and precursors used in manufacture of improvised explosives
• The ECAC certified Liquid Explosive Test Kit (LETK) is a colorimetric-based test kit for detecting liquid explosive residues found in liquids, aerosols, gels and creams and is designed for presumptive identification of concealable liquid threat materials.
• The Narcotics Test Kits (NTK) and Cannabis Test Kit (CTK) are a rapid, simple, and reliable technology designed for identification of Drugs of Abuse by first responders and frontline personnel.