Abstract: A chemical detection system includes a frame, an emitter coupled to the frame, and a detector coupled to the frame proximate the emitter. The system also includes a shielding system coupled to the frame and positioned at least partially between the emitter and the detector, wherein the frame positions a sensing surface of the detector in a direction substantially parallel to a plane extending along a front portion of the frame. A method of analyzing composition of a suspect object includes directing neutrons at the object, detecting gamma rays emitted from the object, and communicating spectrometer information regarding the gamma rays. The method also includes presenting a GUI to a user with a dynamic status of an ongoing neutron spectroscopy process. The dynamic status includes a present confidence for a plurality of compounds being present in the suspect object responsive to changes in the spectrometer information during the ongoing process.

Abstract: A detector and methodology for inspecting a sealed nuclear storage container is described. The detector includes a collimated gamma-ray radiation detector which is moveably borne over the sealed nuclear storage container, and which detects gamma-ray radiation which is emitted by each of a plurality of spent nuclear fuel sources which are enclosed within the sealed nuclear storage container for purposes of detecting the illicit or unauthorized removal of spent nuclear fuel from the nuclear storage container.

Abstract: A detector and methodology for inspecting a sealed nuclear storage container is described and which includes a collimated gamma-ray radiation detector which is moveably borne by the sealed nuclear storage container, and which detects gamma-ray radiation which is emitted by a plurality of spent nuclear fuel sources which are enclosed within the sealed nuclear storage container for purposes of detecting the illicit or unauthorized removal of spent nuclear fuel from the nuclear storage container.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for identifying a chemical compound. A neutron source delivers neutrons into the chemical compound. The nuclei of chemical elements constituting the chemical compound emit gamma rays upon interaction with the neutrons. The gamma rays are characteristic of the chemical elements constituting the chemical compound. A spectrum of the gamma rays is generated having a detection count and an energy scale. The energy scale is calibrated by comparing peaks in the spectrum to energies of pre-selected chemical elements in the spectrum. A least-squares fit completes the calibration. The chemical elements constituting the chemical compound can be readily determined, which then allows for identification of the chemical compound.