Research and development on humanitarian landmine detection system by a compact discharge-type D-D fusion neutron source

Abstract

Current results are described on the R&D of an anti-personnel landmine detection system by using a discharge-type fusion neutron source. Landmines are to be identified through neutron-captured γ-rays of specific energies by hydrogen and nitrogen atoms in the explosives. Improvements in the neutron source have been made to achieve a dc neutron production rate of 4×10 6 sec-1 by a compact device of 200 mm diameter. Also a BGO/NaI(TI) combined scintillation detector has been developed for a well collimated γ-ray detection with an enhanced signal to noise ratio. The results by using an imitator suggest promising and practical features for landmine detection. © 2006 Springer.