Classifying threats with a 14-MeV neutron interrogation system.
SeaPODDS (Sea Portable Drug Detection System) is a non-intrusive tool for detecting concealed threats in hidden compartments of maritime vessels. This system consists of an electronic neutron generator, a gamma-ray detector, a data acquisition computer, and a laptop computer user-interface. Although initially developed to detect narcotics, recent algorithm developments have shown that the system is capable of correctly classifying a threat into one of four distinct categories: narcotic, explosive, chemical weapon, or radiological dispersion device (RDD). Detection of narcotics, explosives, and chemical weapons is based on gamma-ray signatures unique to the chemical elements. Elements are identified by their characteristic prompt gamma-rays induced by fast and thermal neutrons. Detection of RDD is accomplished by detecting gamma-rays emitted by common radioisotopes and nuclear reactor fission products. The algorithm phenomenology for classifying threats into the proper categories is presented here.
Ancore Corporation, 2950 Patrick Henry Drive, Santa Clara, CA 95054, USA. dstrellis@rapiscansystems.com
Dan
D
Strellis
Tsahi
T
Gozani
D000465:Algorithms; D002619:Chemical Warfare Agents / Q000032:analysis*; D004335:Drug and Narcotic Control / Q000379:methods; D005107:Explosions / Q000517:prevention & control; D009501:Neutron Activation Analysis / Q000295:instrumentation*; D009862:Online Systems; D014584:User-Computer Interface
D002619:Chemical Warfare Agents