GPR Integrated Mixed-field Imaging Approach for Radiological Characterisation of Decommissioning Nuclear Sites and Facilities

Lead Research Organisation: Lancaster University
Department Name: Engineering

Abstract

The aim of this project is to use of a recently developed neutron detector, with a data processing electronic system to develop a neutron imager for precise location of neutron-emitting materials in decommissioning facilities. In this project student will use a coded-aperture (mask with array of apertures), where materials (113Cd, W, W-113Cd, W-HDPE), as well as various thicknesses will be considered. Radiation intensity pattern would be projected on the front face of the detector and interactions would be detected by a position-sensitive photomultiplier. The detector output would be connected to the data processing electronic and, is required to programme in order to digitise & stream the intensity pattern to a personal computer. By decoding the digitised pattern using appropriate techniques & programming skills, a neutron image would be able to generate in real-time corresponding to the area investigated. The complete unit would be portable and, expected to be fully automated.

Studentship Projects

Project Reference Relationship Related To Start End Student Name
EP/N509231/1 01/10/2015 30/09/2020
1787125 Studentship EP/N509231/1 01/12/2015 30/11/2018 Ikechukwu Ukaegbu
 
Description We have developed techniques for integrating ground penetrating radar and radiation imaging for nonintrusive depth estimation of buried radioactive wastes. This is particularly useful in decommissioning legacy nuclear sites and facilities where radioactive contaminants typically become entrained inside concrete walls or sipped into the ground over their operational lifetime. This technique will enable the characterisation of radioactive wastes without having to dig the ground or bore into the concrete thereby reducing time and cost.
Exploitation Route Currently, the technique is limited to buried radioactive wastes that emit gamma radiation. Therefore, more research is needed to extend the technique to buried wastes that emit neutron radiation. Also, there is need to develop an integrated ground-penetrating radar and nuclear detector tool for maximum exploitation of the benefits of the developed technique
Sectors Energy,Environment,Security and Diplomacy