Database of high-Z signatures in cargo

Results from comprehensive testing of two prototype dual-energy (6 and 9 MeV) cargo inspection systems provide large databases of signature information of various high atomic number objects (active interrogation benchmarks) hidden in representative cargos. Test objects were fabricated from lead, tungsten and uranium ranging in size from 75 to 430,000 cm³. ISO containers were filled with eighteen selected cargos that varied in density and complexity. These databases, collected by the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office Cargo Advanced Automated Radiography System (CAARS) Program, provide a rich source of signature information that can be used to develop automated and user-assist detection algorithms.