Design Optimization of a Neutron Activation Based Explosives Detection System

摘要

As discussed in earlier sections, three possible routes for optimization studies are (ⅰ) repeated simulations, (ⅱ) variational formulation-based optimization, and (ⅲ) MC perturbation theory based optimization. Fig. 5. Effect of water on the spectrum in TNT, Ammonium Nitrate. In this work, the first approach was used, while the latter two can be demonstrated; especially MC optimization through the PERT feature of MCNP5. From the simulations carried out, it was concluded that low source energy is preferred while 'direct' moderation of the 'fast' source neutrons, though beneficial for radiative capture and subsequent activation of the concealed explosive, reduces the intensity of the incident signal to an extent that the overall detection efficiency is reduced.