In the quest for innovative and eco-friendly bomb detection methods, researchers have turned to an unexpected ally: bees. The process begins with the careful collection of bees using specialized vacuums, ensuring their safe capture and subsequent well-being.
In the controlled environment of a lab, the bees’ metabolic rates are slowed, making them easier to manage during training. Here, they are introduced to the scent of explosive vapors, accompanied by a reward of sugary water. Over time, the bees form a remarkable association between the explosive scent and this sweet reward, showcasing their remarkable Proboscis Extension Reflex (PER), which becomes the primary indicator of their detection capabilities.
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Source: Interesting Engineering