Trace detection method

Patent · Wed Oct 10 04:00:00 EDT 1973

OSTI ID:4371778

Reifman, A; Taylor, G B

A method is described for detecting the presence of materials such as explosives, arms, guns, etc., such as in baggage. The method comprises applying a tracer material to the suspect article. The tracer is selected from substances that emit prompt gamma -rays when irradiated with thermal neutrons and which have a higher thermal neutron capture cross section than material under examination and the environmental material. This may include Gd or its oxide. The article is then irradiated with thermal neutrons the energy of which is such as to cause emission of prompt gamma -rays from the tracer material without formation of radioactive material. These gamma -rays are detected to give a first output signal. Background gamma -rays and neutrons emitted from the article and environmental material are then detected to give a second output signal. The first and second output signals are then combined to allow componsation for background gamma -rays and neutrons, and a third output signal is obtained which is representative of the presence of the suspected material. The neutron source may be PuBe. Examples of application of the method are given. (UK)

• Research Organization: Originating Research Org. not identified
• NSA Number: NSA-29-012995
• OSTI ID: 4371778
• Report Number(s): GB 1333642
• Country of Publication: United Kingdom
• Language: English

Related Subjects

*CRIME DETECTION-- TRACER TECHNIQUES
*EXPLOSIVES-- CRIME DETECTION
ACTIVATION ANALYSIS
CONTAINERS
GADOLINIUM
INSPECTION
N40130 --Chemistry--Analytical & Separations Chemistry--Radiometric & Radiochemical Procedures
N47320* --Isotope & Radiation Source Technology--Radiation Sources--Industrial Uses
PACKAGING
PROMPT GAMMA RADIATION
THERMAL NEUTRONS