Detection of explosives with the PELAN system

PELAN (Pulsed Elemental Analysis with Neutrons) is a small portable system for the detection of explosives. PELAN weights less than 45 kg and is man portable. It is based on the principle that explosives and other contraband contain various chemical elements such as H, C, N, O, etc. in quantities and ratios that differentiate them from other innocuous substances. The pulsed neutrons are produced with a 14 MeV (d-T) neutron generator. Separate gamma-ray spectra from fast neutron, thermal neutron, and activation reactions are accumulated and analyzed to determine elemental content. Data analysis is performed in an automatic manner and a final result of whether a threat is present is returned to the operator. PELAN has successfully undergone field demonstrations for explosive detection.