Restrictions on liquids in airplane carry-on luggage could be relaxed over the coming months as research into X-ray technology that identifies hazardous materials begins trials.

Under the guidance and support of the Department for Transport, Newcastle Airport is currently testing the new technology which will hopefully reduce waiting times, wastage and misunderstandings at customs, as well as providing a simple increase in customer service.

Since 9/11 and notably following a spate of terrorist-related arrests in 2006, liquid restrictions have become the norm worldwide, much to the dismay, and inconvenience, of passengers.

The new technology involves an X-ray beam from a machine which would be shone through liquids that would then project a computer graphic onto a screen, where ingredients deemed dangerous would appear through special signature colour coding. This unique signature can then distinguish between hazardous liquids and the usual alcohol or water bottles most commonly carried. Liquids would still be required to be placed into plastic bags by passengers, with bar-coded bottles scanned by security.

The company behind the technology, Kromek, hopes that in time the machines will be incorporated into traditional baggage scanners and even conveyor belts. CEO for Kromek, Dr Arnab Basu, claimed the machinery would be able to distinguish even liquids packaged in standard containers if they displayed any of the dangerous characteristics.

The restrictions on liquids, brought in almost overnight in the U.K in 2006, have provided all manner of issues for passengers and staff alike, with airport staff spending considerably more time and resources in policing the regulations. Statistics show that an additional 3,500 staff were employed and more than £100 million spent on the security upgrades. Experts across Europe have been experimenting with new technology to better the flight experience and have the full backing of the EU.