Detection and Identification Techniques for Illicitly Trafficked Radioactive Materials

Detection and identification of radioactive substances is an important part of the overall strategy against Illicit Trafficking. After a brief introduction to the topic, this paper discusses the framework which defines the characteristics and sets the goals of the detection effort, paying attention to national policy decisions regarding specific detection limits and response strategy. Response in general and different alarm conditions are discussed before a detailed overview of technical principles and recent developments of instruments is presented Various types of instruments foreseen for applications in combating Illicit Trafficking are reviewed. The actual deployment of instruments is discussed both in view of the type of material to be located and the type of checkpoint or means of transport, respectively, where detection will take place. Attention is paid to considerations of general concern for the detection process comprising of the measurement effort, a possible alarm indication, and the conclusions drawn upon assessing the situation. A short section on recommendations tries to summarize the findings of general nature and the helpful insights gained so far in the areas of instrument selection, choice of proper investigation level, and the important topic of training. The paper concludes with a brief overview of current activities associated with instrument comparison and testing.