PROGRAM TO EXPLORE AND EVALUATE POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS OF RADIOISOTOPE EXCITED X-RAY FLUORESCENCE TECHNIQUES IN CRIMINALISTICS AND NATIONAL SECURITY

摘要

Advances in methods of generating and detecting x-rays, coupled with improvements in miniaturization of electronics, motivated this investigation of the possibility of employing this technology in the areas of criminalistics and national security. Specifically, the advent of radioisotope sources for x-ray generation permit the construction of simple-to-use, compact, portable systems suitable for use in the field by law enforcement personnel. In order to ascertain potential applications a survey involving fourteen government and nongovernment law enforcement and security agencies was carried out. This revealed nineteen problem areas of which eight appeared amenable to solution via the use of x-ray fluorescence methods. Of these, six were selected for further study on the basis of feasibility and the extent of potential use. Based on the results of this study two areas: bullet hole identification and covert marking were designated as first priority applications. Accordingly, portotype models of portable x-ray systems capable of field use were designed, constructed and tested for these two uses. A description of these systems, their theory of operation and directions for their use is given. Recommendations for further implementation of the field testing program are also provided.