Nuclear and Atomic Methods of Mine Detection

Abstract : This report summarizes the results of a project to provide technical review and analysis, developmental assessments, and studies of current and new technology applicable to the detection of landmines using nuclear and atomic techniques. Additionally, technical support for new research initiatives was provided in the form of independent analytical studies that sought to verify expectations and predictions for a range of techniques, including neutron capture, gamma ray induced reactions on nitrogen (an important element in military explosives), neutron elastic and inelastic scatter, gamma ray nuclear resonance scattering on nitrogen, x-ray backscatter imaging, dual energy x-ray Compton scattering, and nuclear magnetic resonance. For relatively mature technologies such as x-ray backscatter imaging, thermal neutron capture, and the reaction of nitrogen with 13.6 MeV gamma-rays, plans for laboratory testing were reviewed and plans for field tests were developed. The project had its principal focus on x-ray backscatter imaging, particularly the optimization of the technique, the development of appropriate x ray sources capable of scanning a 3 meter wide search path, and the development of detectors and collimators capable of withstanding the field environment. A unique type of x ray generator was proposed that could meet the scan rate requirements. It consisted of a single 3 m long cylindrical anode with 150 grid controlled cathodes. The technical specification of this tube were developed. A laboratory demonstration of the feasibility of this concept was carried out by an associate contractor.