Backpack Deployed ‘Portable Radiation Search Tool’ Solid-State Neutron and Gamma Ray Detector Systems

Nucsafe has deployed a Third Generation Portable Radiation Search Tool (3G PRST) that incorporates numerous improvements based upon feedback from users tasked with locating neutron and gamma-ray emitting nuclides. The system is portable, durable, and fully waterproof. The light-weight, ruggedized components are configured in a compact backpack and the complete PRST system weighs less than 9.1 kg (~20 lbs) including batteries. The modular ‘Smart Sensors Architecture,’ used for all Nucsafe systems, enhances the functionality and flexibility of the detector systems. Smart Sensors are added to the modular PRST architecture, which self-configures for the selected sensor package. ‘Smart Sensors’ include the NucSafe scintillating 6Li silicate fiber neutron sensors, 3He neutron detector elements, polyvinyltoluene (PVT) ‘gross’ gamma-ray sensors, and NaI(Tl), CsI(Na), BGO, Lanthanum Halide, and other gamma-ray detectors for spectroscopy. PRST sensors that are most often utilized for search applications include robust 6Li silicate fiber neutron sensors and a PVT gamma-ray detector, which comprises the base model for this system. Radioisotope identification and source locational options will soon be available for the Nucsafe 3G PRST. Data is displayed using either a miniaturized LCD or a wirelessly connected PDA. The color LCD readout provides gamma-ray and neutron count rate and alarm data whereas the PDA provides enhanced control capabilities and records all measurement and alarm data, including radioisotope identifications for spectroscopic models. An integrated GPS allows locational data to be stored with date and time stamps. Data can be transmitted using either the integrated BlueTooth or 802.11b wireless communications; longer range transmissions are accomplished by combining wireless mesh with SATCOM networks. The 3G PRST can operate for over 6 hours on a single battery charge. Another paper presented at 47th Annual Meeting of the INMM (2006 Conference) presents data on the survivability of Nucsafe detector elements under combat conditions.