At most large airports, the detection of contraband and explosives hidden in luggage is performed by systems based on X-ray computed tomography (CT). Many of these systems rely on backscatter detection, which is a technique that exploits the differences in the Compton scattering of materials with lower and higher atomic numbers as a way to accurately detect the presence of organic materials such as drugs and explosives.

In terms of detectors, these systems can use custom-made silicon photodiode arrays with scintillators, a technology that Hamamatsu has provided to the medical CT industry for many years. Another option is chip-scale-size silicon photodiodes, which can be tiled together to form a large photosensitive surface for scintillation coupling.

Outside of airports, there is also need for large-scale detection systems to handle either cargo ship or vehicle inspection at international ports-of-entry. These systems generally use a gamma source and, on the detection end, an array of photomultiplier tubes with scintillators. This forms a large-scale gamma imager which produces radiographic images that reveal the contents of the container or vehicle for inspectors to examine.

• Silicon PIN photodiode arrays: Suitable for baggage inspection (X-ray CT) applications. Due to the high level of customization required, we recommend that you contact us for assistance.
• R9800: high-speed 25 mm head-on PMT for time-of-flight and scintillation counting.
• R9779: high-speed 52 mm head-on PMT for time-of-flight and scintillation counting.
• R9420: high-speed 38 mm head-on PMT for time-of-flight and scintillation counting.
• R6233: 76 mm head-on PMT. Large-area detector with high energy resolution. Suitable for scintillation detection of gamma radiation.
• R6095: 28 mm head-on PMT with high energy resolution. Suitable for scintillation detection of X-ray backscatter.
• R5929: 28 mm head-on PMT with prism window for increased red sensitivity. Suitable for chemical luminescence-based detection of nitrogen contained in explosives.

Please contact us for information on other products which can be used for this application.