Special Nuclear Material and Nuclear Threat Identifier

Radiation Monitoring Systems

Sniper-GN and VeryFUEL

SNIPER-GN is a radiation detection system designed to be quickly deployed by the nuclear security community for homeland security and/ or for emergency response purposes.The SNIPER-GN can “detect and identify” Plutonium, SNM, and spent fuel in just a few seconds and at distances ten times greater than current detection standards (ISO and ANSI) enabling security personnel to immediately recognize and resolve hidden threats without the need to introduce costly secondary detection measures or highly specialized personnel. A patented algorithm allows to identify the SNM through neutron measurements, very difficult to shield and detectable at high distance (this feature is not yet included in any ISO and ANSI standard). This new compact and portable instrument can be easily hidden in a backpack or a trolley to be used in multiple scenarios ranging from rapid implementation in public events to perimeter monitoring of critical infrastructure. SNIPER-GN can also be employed for radiation monitoring of harbors or airports cargo areas, for customed borders inspection and for first responder.The SNIPER-GN is equipped with CAEN patented, cutting-edge PSD technology that combines a highly sophisticated blend of spectroscopy, counting, and neutron multiplicity algorithms to create a truly innovative detection system. This PSD technology has been tested, qualified, and implemented at the most respected nuclear research laboratories and has been adopted by the IAEA Safeguards Division for nuclear fuel verification.

Automatic isotope identification (also for neutron emitters) and report generation

SNIPER-GN performs automatic isotope identification, but in the event of an alarm condition, the operator can initiate an identification measurement. A unique feature of the SNIPERGN system is the neutron source identification algorithm. SNIPER-GN can automatically detect and identify neutron sources, discriminating between fissile material (252Cf), alpha-n sources (Am/Be, Am/Li), Plutonium and Uranium. The system simultaneously performs gamma isotope identification, through peak detection using the integrated high resolution CeBr3 detector.

  • Detection and localization of radioactive materials such as Special Nuclear Material (SNM) and Radiological Dispersal Devices (RDD).
  • High-resolution spectroscopy detector for identification of gamma emitters and a high efficiency gamma/neutron detector for neutron source identification with discrimination between fissile material, alpha-n source, Plutonium and Uranium.
  • Real-time gamma/neutron discrimination is performed and based upon the same Pulse Shape Discrimination (PSD) algorithms implemented by CAEN for the IAEA Safeguards Fast Neutron Collar Monitor.
  • Identification of gamma ray emitters and NORM sources.
  • Highly secure Wi-Fi connectivity supports quick setup and simple functionality and data visualization.
  • Software functionalities including Search, Mapping and Identification.
  • Highly portable (i.e., backpack or trolley) and adaptable system (< 7.8kg).
  • Optional battery power with runtime 8+ hours.

Special Nuclear Material and Nuclear Threat Identifier Models

Sniper-GN
New

Sniper-GN

  • Detection and localization of radioactive materials such as Special Nuclear Material (SNM) and Radiological Dispersal Devices (RDD) even when moderated (polyethylene), shielded or masked.

  • High-resolution spectroscopy detector for identification of gamma emitters.

  • High efficiency gamma/neutron detector for neutron source identification.

  • Discrimination between fissile material, alpha-n source, Plutonium and Uranium (enrichment estimation level in 1 min).

  • Real-time gamma/neutron discrimination using algorithms implemented by CAEN for the IAEA Safeguards Fast Neutron Collar Monitor.

  • Software functionalities including Search, Mapping and Identification.

  • Highly portable (i.e., backpack or trolley) and adaptable system (<7.8kg).

  • Powered by Rechargable Batteries – runtime 8+ hours.

VERYFUEL

VERYFUEL

  • Fits the profile of the fuel assemblies for PWR and WWER1000 reactors.
  • Detector assembly and DAQ system with modular digital electronics, embedded PC and data processing software included
  • 12 cells of EJ-309 liquid scintillator arranged on three detection panels biased by individual HV channels and read out by individual flash ADC
  • Collects neutron coincidences from induced nuclear reactions at much higher rate compared to presently available systems detecting thermal neutrons
  • Statistical uncertainty on the 235U enrichment in 17×17 PWR lower than 1% with 15 min acquisition time
  • Measure weakly effected by burnable poisons rods
  • Easy set-up of the instrument in-field with minimal cabling and connection complexity
  • Collect, transfer and store raw data including waveforms, cell number/address and time stamps

CBRN scenario

The SNIPER-GN is designed for the CBRN defense and can be deployed in:

  • Search and Secure operations
  • Security control in airports
  • Nuclear industrial facilities and sensitive area’s radiation survey
  • Radiological dispersal device (RDD) detection and identification
  • First responder prompt intervention
  • Customs border inspections

 

Industrial scenario

SNIPER-GN can also be used for critical infrastructure’s perimeters monitoring or in other stages of the nuclear fuel cycle like:

  • Enrichment Plant survey and verifications
  • Spent Fuel safeguards
  • UF6 Cylinders characterization
  • Fast Waste screening
  • Urban waste controls
  • Facility remote unattended monitoring

Civil scenario

SNIPER-GN is also suitable for public events fast deployment and other ordinary security activities like:

  • Parcel scanning in shipping facilities
  • Entry-points for concerts, sporting events, and other large public gatherings
  • Discrete scanning for advanced detection in crowded public areas
  • Screening assessment of contamination sites
  • RDD search & detection in airport and harbor cargo container
  • Preventative radiation survey for event protection

The Solution

SNIPER-GN is offering an easy and fast way to detect and identify hidden Special Nuclear Material and it immediately resolves the threat without the need to execute extra measurements and to involve highly specialized personnel.

SNIPER-GN is designed for the nuclear & homeland security communities. It is capable to “detect and identify” Plutonium, SNM, and spent fuel in a few seconds at a distance that is ten time greater than today detection standards (ISO and ANSI that do not include the “Identification“ feature).

SNIPER-GN is equipped wit our latest PSD technology combined with sophisticated algorithms that mix spectroscopy, counting and neutron multiplicity. This technology has been already qualified by well-known nuclear research institutions (e.g. ENEA) and has been adopted by the IAEA Safeguards Division which uses the CAEN Fast Neutron Collar Monitor for nuclear fuel verification.

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