Researchers Develop Handheld Ivory Identifier
A new non-destructive diagnostic tool aims to assist customs officials in identifying ivory specimens in the field.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Botany
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PhD candidate Nina Scheffel at Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University of Applied Sciences is developing a handheld technology for the non-destructive identification of ivory from Proboscidea. The project, currently in the research stage, utilizes data from 200 specimens to assist law enforcement in wildlife crime prevention.
Why it matters
By providing a portable, non-damaging method to verify ivory, this research aims to improve the detection of illegal wildlife trafficking by customs and law enforcement officials. This approach addresses the logistical challenges of identifying protected materials without the need for invasive sampling in the field.
The research relies on data gathered from 200 tusks and carvings across 7 museums to train the identification method. This approach aims to surpass existing invasive laboratory testing by integrating three distinct handheld technologies into a single non-destructive diagnostic process.
The players
Nina Scheffel
A PhD candidate at Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University of Applied Sciences specializing in the development of non-destructive identification methods for wildlife materials.
Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University of Applied Sciences
A German higher education institution conducting research in applied sciences, including material identification and conservation technologies.
The details
The research project explores the combination of three unnamed handheld technologies to create a non-destructive profile of ivory from Proboscidea, the taxonomic order containing elephants. By scanning the physical and chemical properties of a specimen without removing material, the system seeks to provide real-time identification for enforcement. The researcher is currently developing an online interface to support statistical analysis of these scans and establishing a reference database for future verification.
Timeline
The researcher completed a six-month research placement in South Africa.
The Tech Race
This research follows efforts to improve upon current ivory identification standards, which often rely on slow, destructive laboratory methods. It aims to bridge the gap between academic botanical analysis and the real-time requirements of customs enforcement.
The technology is currently in a research stage with a patent application filed, meaning it is not yet available for use in customs operations. Once the reference database and online interface are fully developed, the tool could eventually streamline the workflow for authorities monitoring the trade of animal materials.
The takeaway
The project signals a shift toward deploying sophisticated analytical tools directly into the field for wildlife protection. Watch for upcoming announcements regarding the software interface's performance benchmarks and potential pilot tests in actual customs environments.
Further reading
Explore more developments in Botany as researchers apply new material science techniques to conservation challenges.
Source note: This article includes information reported by EnviroNews - latest environment news, climate change, renewable energy.
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