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System, algorithm, and method using short pulse interrogation with neutrons to detect and identify matter

Patent ·
OSTI ID:1840254
; ; ; ; ; ;
A system, method, and algorithm for detecting and identifying special nuclear material (SNM) (including fissionable material), explosives, or drugs is disclosed. This material detection system relies on active interrogation of material using a short, intense neutron pulse, and characterization of the resulting prompt gamma response in two short time windows, the first concurrent with and the second immediately following the end of the neutron pulse, optionally subject to a total transit delay time of the neutrons from the neutron source to the target and from the target to the gamma detector. A high data rate analysis system implements data stream analysis and statistical correlations of the two short time window gamma responses to rapidly detect or identify SNM, explosives, or drugs. The duration of the neutron pulse is so short that minimal dose results. Various shields help to minimize the background signal falling on the gamma detector to improve sensitivity.
Research Organization:
Sandia National Laboratories (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA)
DOE Contract Number:
NA0003525
Assignee:
National Technology & Engineering Solutions of Sandia, LLC (Albuquerque, NM)
Patent Number(s):
11,061,164
Application Number:
16/433,576
OSTI ID:
1840254
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

References (10)

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journal August 2000
Fast neutron radiography scanner for the detection of contraband in air cargo containers journal August 2005
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journal January 2008
Rattling nucleons: New developments in active interrogation of special nuclear material
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journal January 2012
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The Dense Plasma Focus: A Versatile Dense Pinch for Diverse Applications journal December 2012
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