When it comes to detecting nuclear threats, physics is not on our side. The special nuclear material (SNM) used to make nuclear bombs is more difficult to detect than normal isotopes, and some SNM are relatively easy to shield.
Sandia is developing passive and active detectors to overcome the limitations of today’s radiological and nuclear detectors. We’re also conducting advanced R&D to investigate new concepts to create improved detectors for future threats.
Sandia scientists are shrinking radiation detector components, such as these photomultiplier tubes, for use in new detector systems that will be smaller, less costly, and more easily portable.
For instance, Sandia is shrinking photomultiplier tubes (pictured to the left), a component that amplifies signals to allow detection. Miniaturizing detector components could in turn lead to smaller, less costly, and more easily portable detection systems. This project leverages Sandia’s capability to produce microparts using the LIGA process — a capability that involves lithography, electroplating, and molding processes and that is shared by only a handful of organizations worldwide.
In addition, Sandia/California materials researchers are examining materials that offer increased detection sensitivity while meeting real-world size and cost constraints, as shown in the following examples:
Contact Jim Wilhelm at (925) 294-3673 for more information on partnering opportunities with Sandia’s Radiation Detection group.