Exploitation of X-ray technology for the detection of contraband-aviation security applications

A number of methods are available for detecting contraband items in luggage. Perhaps the most powerful of these is the use of X ray, for the reason that humans rely heavily on their sense of vision and X ray technology gives us a convenient and unobtrusive way of visually revealing the contents of an item under inspection. The paper examines the use of this technology in the aviation security industry, from the simple systems that were used to detect weapons through to the advanced systems, which are operational today, for the automatic detection of explosive substances. The increase in air traffic has meant corresponding increased demand being made on security screening, Although the overriding performance consideration for the legislator is the detection capability, this, in reality, has to be balanced with other operational considerations. This compromise situation has shaped the way systems have been developed. The paper covers the application of X ray technology to security screening per se and the different modes of application which have produced a number of successful screening devices. In addition the programme of work carried out by PSDB, with DoT funding, is discussed, including some aspects of testing automatic explosive detection systems in conjunction with UK airports