Advances in associated-particle neutron probe diagnostics for substance detection

Edgar A. Rhodes; Charles E. Dickerman; Manfred Frey

doi:10.1117/12.219583

15 September 1995 Advances in associated-particle neutron probe diagnostics for substance detection

Edgar A. Rhodes, Charles E. Dickerman, Manfred Frey

Proceedings Volume 2511, Law Enforcement Technologies: Identification Technologies and Traffic Safety; (1995) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.219583
Event: European Symposium on Optics for Environmental and Public Safety, 1995, Munich, Germany

Abstract

The development and investigation of a small associated-particle sealed-tube neutron generator (APSTNG) shows potential to allow the associated-particle diagnostic method to be moved out of the laboratory into field applications. The APSTNG interrogates the inspected object with 14-MeV neutrons generated from the deuterium-tritium reaction and detects the alpha-particle associated with each neutron inside a cone encompassing the region of interest. Gamma-ray spectra of resulting neutron reactions identify many nuclides. Flight-times determined from detection times of the gamma-rays and alpha-particles can yield a separate course tomographic image of each identified nuclide, from a single orientation. Chemical substances are identified by comparing relative spectral line intensities with ratios of elements in reference compounds. The high-energy neutrons and gamma-rays penetrate large objects and dense materials. Generally, no collimators or radiation shielding are needed. Proof-of-concept laboratory experiments have been successfully performed for simulated nuclear, chemical warfare, and conventional munitions. Most recently, inspection applications have been investigated for radioactive waste characterization, presence of cocaine in propane tanks, and uranium and plutonium smuggling. Based on lessons learned with the present APSTNG system, an advanced APSTNG tube (along with improved high voltage supply and control units) is being designed and fabricated that will be transportable and rugged, yield a substantial neutron output increase, and provide sufficiently improved lifetime to allow operation at more than an order of magnitude increase in neutron flux.

Citation Download Citation

Edgar A. Rhodes, Charles E. Dickerman, and Manfred Frey "Advances in associated-particle neutron probe diagnostics for substance detection", Proc. SPIE 2511, Law Enforcement Technologies: Identification Technologies and Traffic Safety, (15 September 1995); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.219583

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