Abstract: A radiation detection system and method suitable for use by a first responder to detect a radiological source. The system includes a container that encloses a chamber containing a pressurized inert gas. Incident gamma rays pass through walls of the container to interact with inert gas atoms within the chamber. Wavelength-shifting fiber elements are disposed within scintillator bars oriented parallel to and radially spaced from the chamber axis. At least one sensor is interconnected with the fiber elements to receive first signals therefrom in response to the scattered gamma rays. An electrically-charged wire is disposed within the container along the axis thereof. The wire is adapted to attract electrons released from atoms of the inert gas that are ionized from being impacted by an incident gamma ray, and then produce second signals in response to the released electrons.

Abstract: A radiation detection system and method suitable for use by a first responder to detect a radiological source. The system includes a container that encloses a chamber containing a pressurized inert gas. Incident gamma rays pass through walls of the container to interact with inert gas atoms within the chamber. Wavelength-shifting fiber elements are disposed within scintillator bars oriented parallel to and radially spaced from the chamber axis. At least one sensor is interconnected with the fiber elements to receive first signals therefrom in response to the scattered gamma rays. An electrically-charged wire is disposed within the container along the axis thereof. The wire is adapted to attract electrons released from atoms of the inert gas that are ionized from being impacted by an incident gamma ray, and then produce second signals in response to the released electrons.

Abstract: A system and method suitable for detecting radiation in a flowing liquid, such as a water flowing in a water supply system. The system includes a closed tubular-shaped container having a hollow interior that contains an inert gas at an elevated pressure, and a tubular-shaped housing surrounding the container. The container has a wall structure comprising a cathode, and has an inner electrical element within its hollow interior that defines an anode along a longitudinal axis of the container. The housing has an inlet and an outlet at oppositely-disposed ends thereof, and the container and housing cooperate to define a flow passage generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the container. The system detects signals generated by the container in response to electrons being released within the container as a result of atoms of the inert gas being ionized by gamma ray radiation and then traveling to the anode.