title: Monte Carlo simulations as a feasibility tool for non-metallic land-mine detection by thermal-neutron backscattering.
abstract: The use of Monte Carlo simulations is presented for modelling a simplified land-mine detector system with thermal neutron backscattering (TNB) analysis based on a 252Cf-neutron source. Different aspects and a variety of external conditions, related to localisation and identification of a buried object have been investigated. In particular, the influence of moisture in a formation has been assessed, as moisture can be a serious interference for hydrogen as an indicator for explosives. The results of sensitivity calculations confirm that land-mine detection methods, based on an analysis of TNB may be applicable in homogeneous formations with low porosity provided that pore-water remains <5% by weight. In dry limestone, the TNT-based explosives can be well distinguished from other hydrogen-rich materials, except wood. However, in dry siliciclastic sands TNT explosives and wood are distinguishable.
authors.affiliation: Nuclear Geophysics Division, Kernfysisch Versneller Instituut, Groningen, The Netherlands. maucec@kvi.nl
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Maucec
authors.forename: R J
authors.initials: RJ
authors.lastname: de Meijer
mesh_terms: D002142:Californium / Q000032:analysis; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D009010:Monte Carlo Method; D009502:Neutrons; D009689:Nuclear Warfare; D012542:Scattering, Radiation; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D013816:Thermodynamics
chemical_list: D002142:Californium