Design of a large-area CsI(Tl) photo-diode array for explosives detection by neutron-activation gamma-ray spectroscopy

A design for a large area, position-sensitive gamma-ray spectrometer for use in imaging explosive materials is described. The design has been optimised for use in the energy range from 2 to 12 MeV. At 5 MeV, the spectral resolution of each CsI(Tl)-photodiode pixel is better than 3% FWHM. The multi-element detector system, when used in conjunction with a coded-aperture mask, is able to provide a “multi-colour” image of the scene when illuminated by a neutron source. The feasibility of using such a system to identify the unique elemental composition and location of the explosive materials is discussed.