[kujhytrtyu]

They aren't meant to detect explosives. They are meant to detect weapons that the metal detector might not pickup

The explosive you would just put through the x-ray machine anyway where it wouldn't be detected.

[ceejayoz]

> They aren't meant to detect explosives.

Yes, they are.

http://www.tsa.gov/approach/tech/ait/faqs.shtm

> Advanced imaging technology safely screens passengers for both metallic and non-metallic threats, including weapons and explosives, which may be concealed under a passengers’ clothing without physical contact to keep the traveling public secure.

[kujhytrtyu]

That's a TSA website - it also claims that they are professionals working for our security.

[ceejayoz]

The scanners may not do a good job of it, but it's pretty clear that one of the things they were sold as doing is detecting explosives.