At airport screening a passenger may be screened for explosives using explosive trace detection (ETD). A number of compounds may give "false positive" results.
Some of the compounds giving a positive result on screening include"
(1) nitroglycerin (angina medication)
(2) glycerine in hand sanitizers or lotions
(3) potassium nitrate in fertilizer
(4) gunpowder on clothing
Even trace amounts can trigger the alarm.
Recommendations when traveling:
(1) Carry an identification card, especially one that would justify exposure to a triggering compound.
(2) Do not travel in clothes or shoes that may have been exposed to a triggering compound.
(3) Do not carry luggage that may have been exposed to a triggering compound.
(4) Wipe your hands with isopropyl alcohol prior to screening.
