Landmine detection with the neutron backscattering method

Neutron backscattering was selected as a promising new method for the detection of landmines. The technique is based on the use of a /sup 252/Cf source and a thermal neutron detector. The fast neutrons from the californium source are moderated more rapidly in the landmine, especially plastic mines, than in the surrounding soil. This leads to an increase in the number of reflected thermal neutrons above the place where the mine is buried. Results from experimental trials with the Delft University Neutron Backscattering LAndmine Detector (DUNBLAD) are presented and will be compared with results of Monte Carlo simulations. Also aspects concerning the limitations of this method and the radiation dose for the user are examined. Based on these results, a new portable prototype detector is presented. This device will be combined with a metal detector as these two techniques are complementary and therefore will increase the reliability of the system.

[1]  E. Hussein,et al.  Landmine detection: the problem and the challenge. , 2000, Applied radiation and isotopes : including data, instrumentation and methods for use in agriculture, industry and medicine.

[2]  T. Cousins,et al.  The development of a thermal neutron activation (TNA) system as a confirmatory non-metallic land mine detector , 1998 .

[3]  R. Lanza,et al.  CAFNA{reg{underscore}sign}, coded aperture fast neutron analysis for contraband detection: Preliminary results , 1999 .

[4]  Richard C. Lanza,et al.  CAFNA(R) Coded Aperture Fast Neutron Analysis for contraband detection: preliminary results , 1998, 1998 IEEE Nuclear Science Symposium Conference Record. 1998 IEEE Nuclear Science Symposium and Medical Imaging Conference (Cat. No.98CH36255).

[5]  Claudio Bruschini,et al.  A Survey of Research on Sensor Technology for Landmine Detection , 1998 .