Development and commercialization of a fast-neutron/x-ray Cargo Scanner

There is a pressing world-wide need for a technology that can rapidly scan air freight containers for a range of threats, including explosives, narcotics, CBRN materials and other contraband. Starting in 2002, CSIRO developed a cargo scanning concept that combines fast neutron and high-energy gamma-ray or x-ray radiography. The scans can be processed to produce high-resolution radiographic images that show both areal density and composition. In 2008, CSIRO and Nuctech Company Limited launched a joint venture for the commercialization and global deployment of the technology. In early 2009 a commercial prototype unit was demonstrated that combined neutron and dual-energy, binocular-vision x-ray technologies from the two partners to achieve significantly higher image quality and cargo throughputs. This paper reviews the scientific, technological and commercial developments that have been critical to the development of the Cargo Scanner.