The challenge
Accurate detection systems enable targeted sampling and clean-up operations and, crucially, reduce the risk of human exposure. But existing remote gamma detection methods have limitations in quantifying complex contamination zones that include multi-radionuclide plumes and contamination at depth.
Detection in such scenarios is technically difficult as high background levels of radiation can mask dangerous point sources; if they are buried at depth that further reduces the signal detectable above ground to below the background level.
To overcome this challenge, researchers at NASU developed a sophisticated detector system that can be mounted on a drone and flown over nuclear and other sites. Using innovative algorithms, it enables mapping of underground sources and background separation – something that’s currently not possible in any other way. This development allows risk assessment of the movement of underground sources in the environment to inform above-ground safety mitigations.
Having carried out field trials in Ukraine, the researchers tapped into NNUF-EXACT’s specialist services. Their aim was to simulate underground sources in a controlled environment and at a controlled output, to accurately define the device capabilities and increase confidence in the field measurements.
The project was made possible by Direct Access Project funding from Sellafield Game Changers, which enabled us to help ANAMAD and NASU take their work forward.
The research
We worked with ANAMAD and NASU to design and conduct a series of experimental trials to evaluate the performance of their prototype system.
The experiments were designed to simulate complex sub-surface contamination plumes and objects, using different radioactive sources at different distances and buried to different depths. The results were compared against those of conventional gamma detectors.
Real-time transfer of test data and video conferencing meant the NASU researchers could collaborate remotely from Kyiv during the testing process.
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Specialist facilities
We tested the prototype device in our radiochemical facilities and provided active sources to enable evaluation of the detection system’s performance.
Expert input
Our specialists brought their extensive expertise in gamma spectrometry and technology validation to the project, advising on the experimental setup and facilitating the trials in collaboration with ANAMAD and NASU.
Assured results
Validation of this novel technology, supported by our specialist input and facilities, enhanced the NASU team’s confidence in their system’s field measurements.
Research support
- We provided the different radioactive sources as well as access to conventional gamma detectors for cross-comparison.
- We built a bespoke system to take measurements at different distances and with different attenuating materials.
Flexible approach
We ensured that geography was no barrier to collaboration with the NASU researchers, hosting video meetings and sending live data to enable them to troubleshoot and guide the experiments in real time from Ukraine.