Idaho Explosives Detection System: Development and Enhancements

Abstract

The Idaho Explosives Detection System (IEDS) was developed at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) to respond to threats imposed by delivery trucks carrying bulk explosives into military bases. The system consists of two platforms, one on each side of a subject vehicle. Each platform includes a neutron generator and an array of sodium iodide (NaI) detectors. The two neutron generators are pulsed and synchronized. A computer connects to the system via Ethernet and is able to control the system remotely. The system was developed to detect bulk explosives in a medium size truck within a 5-min measurement time. In 2004, a fullscale prototype IEDS was built for testing and continued development. System performance was successfully tested at the INL from November 2005 to February 2006 using different types of real explosives with a variety of cargo. Recently, the first deployable prototype system was installed at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio and has been in operation since May 2007. The capability of passively detecting radiological material within a delivery truck has also been added.

Towards optoelectronic detection of explosives

“…One of the most complex systems is based on neu− tron techniques. Although the systems are characterized by high sensitivity their use is limited by high false alarm rate or high price [18][19][20][21]. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy can identify the atomic configuration of mole− cules.…”

Sensors and Systems for the Detection of Explosive Devices - An Overview

“…In addition, the sensitivity of the TNA detection system is limited and its price is very high. It is applied for the detection of drugs and explosives in luggage and small packages, liquid explosive in bottles and bags, buried landmines and unexploded ordnance [13,14]. Summarily, the TNA method is able to characterize High Explosives (HE) by their nitrogen and hydrogen signature, but with restricted sensitivity.…”