Bomb detection using backscattered x rays

Grant J. Lockwood; Steve L. Shope; Joseph C. Wehlburg; Michael M. Selph; Jennifer Jacobs

doi:10.1117/12.336987

7 January 1999 Bomb detection using backscattered x rays

Grant J. Lockwood, Steve L. Shope, Joseph C. Wehlburg, Michael M. Selph, Jennifer Jacobs

Proceedings Volume 3577, Sensors, C3I, Information, and Training Technologies for Law Enforcement; (1999) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.336987
Event: Enabling Technologies for Law Enforcement and Security, 1998, Boston, MA, United States

Abstract

Currently the most common method to determine the contents of a package suspected of containing an explosive device is to use transmission radiography. This technique requires that an x-ray source and film be placed on opposite sites of the package. This poses a problem if the package is placed so that only one side is accessible, such as against a wall. There is also a threat to personnel and property since explosive devices may be 'booby trapped.' We have developed a method to x-ray a package using backscattered x-rays. This procedure eliminates the use of film behind the target. All of the detection is done from the same side as the source. When an object is subjected to x-rays, some of them are scattered back toward the source. The backscattering of x-rays is proportional to the atomic number (Z) of the material raised to the 4.1 power. This Z^4.1 dependence allows us to easily distinguish between explosives, wires, timer, batteries, and other bomb components. Backscatter experiments at Sandia National Laboratories have been conducted on mock bombs in packages. We are able to readily identify the bomb components. The images that are obtained in this procedure are done in real time and the image is displayed on a computer screen.

Citation Download Citation

Grant J. Lockwood, Steve L. Shope, Joseph C. Wehlburg, Michael M. Selph, and Jennifer Jacobs "Bomb detection using backscattered x rays", Proc. SPIE 3577, Sensors, C3I, Information, and Training Technologies for Law Enforcement, (7 January 1999); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.336987

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