ViridiScan: a novel mobile NDT sensor for nuclear decommissioning

ViridiScan is a new tool for on-site, in-situ surface characterisation in nuclear decommissioning applications. It will allow rapid, cost-effective measurement of radionuclides in building materials and will result in considerable cost saving through the better segregation of waste. Currently, samples are removed from surfaces by drilling, exposing the operator to considerable dose and then sent to a laboratory for analysis. ViridiScan combines a proven laboratory technique for the measurement of isotopic composition with a new approach for removal of a sample from a contaminated surface using a laser. The laser head can be used to sample in confined spaces where conventional sampling is not possible. Limited depth profiling may also be possible so that the distribution of radionuclides within a material can be better understood. The need for human intervention at the sample face is removed providing a safer working environment.