Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A scintillation-based detection device and method for continuous monitoring of flowing liquids for the presence of radionuclides. A side-stream pipe directs a portion of the monitored liquid from the main flow transfer pipe through and/or around the detector. Within the side-stream pipe is a scintillation detector assembly, having) either a nested-cylindrical or stacked-element shape. The real-time to near real-time detection capabilities are influenced by the total surface area of the detector assembly. The detectors are operated in anti-coincidence mode to distinguish pure beta-emitters from beta-gamma emitters and from pure gamma events. A gross beta count, gross gamma count, or some combination may also be determined.

Abstract: A radiation detection blanket for use in surveying a broad or irregular area of interest for radiation emissions. Small radiation detectors are affixed to the fabric and distributed relative to its surface area. The detector materials may be of the OSL, TLD, or ERD variety, or may be a combination of OSL, TLD and ERD. Detector materials having varying thicknesses of high Z coatings may be clustered together in the blanket fabric to yield a gamma radiation spectrum. Use of a converter material on the detector material allows the blanket to detect neutron radiation. The blanket includes specialized transmission means for allowing the detector materials to be read individually, by passing the reader along a surface or along an edge of the blanket. A composite radiation measurement is obtained upon reading the individual detectors, allowing determination of the radiation distribution within the object being surveyed by the blanket.

Abstract: A scintillation-based detection device and method for continuous monitoring of flowing liquids for the presence of radionuclides. A side-stream pipe directs a portion of the monitored liquid from the main flow transfer pipe through and/or around the detector. Within the side-stream pipe is a scintillation detector assembly, having) either a nested-cylindrical or stacked-element shape. The real-time to near real-time detection capabilities are influenced by the total surface area of the detector assembly. The detectors are operated in anti-coincidence mode to distinguish pure beta-emitters from beta-gamma emitters and from pure gamma events. A gross beta count, gross gamma count, or some combination may also be determined.