Computational-experimental studies of a facility for detecting fissile materials in airports

An approach to developing a facility for detecting and nondestructive monitoring of fissile materials is examined. The approach is based on the use of a pulsed neutron source and different moderators in which the time dependences of the characteristics of the neutron and photon fields are distinguished with the help of a digital technology for processing scintillation signals. The computational and experimental studies which were performed make it possible to substantiate the main parameters of a real customs facility, which can be used at an airport, for detecting fissile materials. It is impossible to conceal fissile materials by means of radiation-absorbing screens, for example, lead or cadmium screens. The use of a pulsed source of neutrons with a deuterium-deuterium synthesis reaction precludes any possible contamination of the territory of the airport even if the neutron source is deliberately destroyed.