Timed-neutron detection for land mines

We describe a new and novel means for detecting nonmetallic land mines. Timed neutron detection (TND) utilizes the unique neutron-moderating properties common to most explosives and all polymers and incorporates timing aspects to improve the measurement process. TND offers the possibility of a low-cost detector for non-metallic land mines with small radiation exposure. Experimental results with actual land mines and simulants are described. Computer simulations provide an understanding of how the performance of detectors based on this approach will be affected by environmental and operator parameter variations.