Revolutionizing Safety and Security: Rigaku Launches Fourth-Generation 1064 nm Raman Analyzer for Enhanced Chemical Threat Analysis
Rigaku Analytical Devices, a division of Rigaku Holdings Corporation (headquartered in Akishima, Tokyo; President and CEO: Jun Kawakami), is proud to unveil its latest innovation in chemical threat analysis: the Icon series, a fourth-generation lineup of 1064 nm Raman analyzers designed to transform safety and security operations. The flagship model, the Icon-X, will make its debut at the International Hazardous Materials Response Teams Conference (HAZMAT), hosted by the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) in Baltimore, MD, USA, from June 13-14, 2025. Global sales of the Icon-X will commence on June 13, marking a significant advancement in rapid identification technology for hazardous materials.
Standoff Capability: A Game-Changer for First Responders
The Icon-X introduces a groundbreaking feature: standoff chemical analysis, enabling users to identify potentially dangerous substances from a safe distance. This capability is a critical asset for military personnel, first responders, explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams, and border protection units who frequently encounter threats such as improvised explosive devices (IEDs), homemade explosives (HMEs), and chemical warfare agents (CWAs). By eliminating the need for close-range sample collection, the Icon-X not only enhances safety but also allows operators to assess hazards without disrupting the scene. This reduces response times and minimizes risks in high-stakes environments.
Comprehensive On-Board Library for Versatile Applications
In addition to its standoff functionality, the Icon-X is equipped with an extensive on-board library of hazardous materials, including chemical warfare agents (CWAs), explosives, narcotics, toxic industrial chemicals, precursors, cutting agents, and more. This comprehensive database ensures that users can quickly and accurately identify a wide range of substances, empowering them to make informed decisions in real time.
Cutting-Edge Design and Durability
The Icon-X represents a significant leap forward in ergonomics and usability compared to previous generations. Key enhancements include:
- Advanced Processing Technology: Leveraging the latest innovations, the Icon-X delivers faster and more accurate results.
- Improved User Interface: An illuminated keypad and a larger, highly responsive touchscreen enhance ease of use, even in challenging conditions.
- Optional GPS Integration: This feature enables users to tag critical scan data with precise location information, aiding fleet management and sensitive site exploitation.
- Upgraded Camera System: Equipped with a 13MP camera and LED flash, the Icon-X captures clearer images for detailed documentation.
- Rugged Build Quality: Meeting the MIL-STD-810H standard for durability, the device withstands shock, pressure, and extreme temperatures. Additionally, its IP68 certification ensures it is fully dustproof and waterproof, making it ideal for harsh environments and decontamination procedures.
- Expanded Accessories: New tools, such as a ball probe for analyzing substances inside deep containers, further broaden the Icon-X’s application scope.
Addressing Modern Challenges with Advanced Technology
As criminal networks grow increasingly sophisticated and gain easier access to hazardous materials, the demand for advanced detection tools has never been more pressing. The Icon-X builds on the proven success of Rigaku’s earlier generations of handheld 1064 nm Raman technology, offering reliable and rapid identification capabilities. Its utilization of 1064 nm Raman spectroscopy eliminates fluorescence interference—a common issue with older technologies—enabling users to scan through translucent packaging and identify dirty or mixed substances with precision.
“During the development of the Icon series, we drew on years of feedback from our global network of 1064 nm Raman users and partners,” said Dr. Michael Hargreaves, Vice President of Science & Technology at Rigaku Analytical Devices. “This allowed us to elevate a trusted, field-proven technology to new heights, significantly expanding the capabilities of handheld Raman spectroscopy.”
Showcasing Innovation at IAFC HAZMAT 2025
Attendees of the IAFC Hazmat Show in Baltimore will have the opportunity to experience the Icon-X firsthand at Rigaku’s booth (#314). From June 13-14, 2025, visitors can explore its cutting-edge features and witness live demonstrations of its standoff analysis capabilities. The event will highlight how the Icon-X empowers first responders, military personnel, and security teams to operate more efficiently and safely in hazardous environments.
Joining Rigaku’s Award-Winning Fleet
The Icon-X joins Rigaku’s acclaimed lineup of 1064 nm Raman analyzers, including the CQL series, which has earned recognition for its reliability and performance. Backed by Rigaku’s extensive global sales and distribution network, the Icon-X promises unparalleled support and accessibility for customers worldwide.
A Commitment to Safety and Innovation
With the launch of the Icon-X, Rigaku reaffirms its commitment to advancing safety and security industries through technological innovation. By addressing the evolving challenges faced by first responders and security professionals, the Icon series sets a new benchmark for handheld chemical analysis tools. Its ability to deliver rapid, accurate, and safe identification of hazardous materials ensures that users are better equipped to protect lives and mitigate risks.
For more information about the Icon-X and its capabilities, visit www.rigakuanalytical.com. As Rigaku continues to push the boundaries of analytical technology, the Icon-X stands as a testament to the company’s dedication to enhancing safety and security in an ever-changing world.
About the Rigaku Group
Since its establishment in 1951, the engineering professionals of the Rigaku group have been dedicated to benefiting society with leading-edge technologies, notably including its core fields of X-ray and thermal analysis. With a market presence in over 90 countries and some 2,000 employees from 9 global operations, Rigaku is a solution partner in industry and research analysis institutes. Our overseas sales ratio has reached approximately 70% while sustaining an exceptionally high market share in Japan. Together with our customers, we continue to develop and grow. As applications expand from semiconductors, electronic materials, batteries, environment, resources, energy, life science to other high-tech fields, Rigaku realizes innovations “To Improve Our World by Powering New Perspectives.”
For details, please visit rigaku-holdings.com/english
About Rigaku Analytical Devices
Rigaku Analytical Devices is a pioneer in handheld 1064 nm Raman spectroscopy. Our products are trusted by law enforcement departments, government agencies, and security specialists to identify chemical threats. The pharmaceutical manufacturing sector relies on us for quality control. At Rigaku, we are focused on supporting our clients with our global expertise and developing innovative solutions that perform optimally, mitigate new chemical threats, and are always reliable and cost effective. Our rugged products deliver unparalleled accuracy and support for rapid lab-quality results any time, any place. For more information: http://www.rigakuanalytical.com/
