Re: airport explosive detection systems

[Slaback@micf.nist.gov]

These systems use neutrons which interact
with the nitrogen present in explosives to
produce characteristic prompt gammas.  The
neutron fluence is sufficiently low that
activation is not an issue.  The prompt
gamma intensity should be minimal (unless
there is a tremendous amount of explosive, in
which case the gammas at very low on my
priority list).

I believe the systems all use Cf-252, but since
DoE has not made any for a while the inventory
is going away fast.

A little risk adds spice to life.
slaback@MICF.NIST.gov