New Radiation Sensor Embedded in a Metal Detection Unit

Several of the commonly used industrial isotopes that are of concern for use as a radiological dispersal device (RDD) can easily be shielded with metal. Therefore, an approach that combines the detection of radiation and shielding provides an advanced solution. This paper introduces the embedment of a radiation detection unit within a metal detector. The radiation sensor, based on the silicon photomultiplier (SiPM) coupled to a scintillation crystal, was successfully incorporated into a common metal detection unit. The advantages of the silicon photomultiplier over traditional light sensors and their results are presented. The sensitivity obtained complies with Homeland Security international standards for personal radiation detectors. Background threshold adjustment and various application notes are discussed.