Experimental data and computer simulations are presented for gamma-ray detection by vehicle portal monitors for homeland security applications at international borders. The experiments and simulations use spectral processing of gamma rays from various sources (241Am, 57Co, 133Ba, 137Cs, 60Co) and background to provide data for comparing plastic and NaI(Tl) detectors. The effects of gamma-ray scattering in cargo are also examined. Plastic scintillators are well suited for primary screening of gamma-ray sources because of their large size and low cost. Sodium iodide is preferable to plastic for applications of isotope identification based on gamma-ray spectrometry. Some applications may benefit from integrating features from both types of detectors.
Revised: March 16, 2009 |
Published: October 31, 2003
Citation
Stromswold D.C., E.R. Siciliano, J.E. Schweppe, J.H. Ely, B.D. Milbrath, R.T. Kouzes, and B.D. Geelhood. 2003.Comparison of Plastic and NaI(Tl) Scintillators for Vehicle Portal Monitor Applications. In 2003 IEEE Nuclear Science Symposium Conference Record, 2, 1065 - 1069. Piscataway, New Jersey:IEEE.PNNL-14361.