Feb 12 2016
Rapiscan Systems, a leading global supplier of security inspection systems, today announced the expansion of its radiation detection product line to include the Rapiscan MP100 Backpack radiation detection system. The MP100 is a lightweight, high performance solution that can detect radiological and nuclear materials and is housed within a compact commercial backpack, making it ideal for covert radiation inspection.
President Obama has cited the danger of a terrorist acquiring nuclear weapons as “the most immediate and extreme threat to global security,” and U.S. Customs and Border Protection has indicated that “nuclear and radiological materials are of particular concern because of their potential to harm large numbers of people and disrupt the U.S. economy.” In fact, over the last two decades more than 2,500 incidents of trafficking radioactive material have been reported to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) by member states.
The MP100 Backpack radiation detection system is designed for ease of operation and makes radiation detection as easy as simply walking around. It includes a long battery life that supports extended deployment, as well as the following additional features:
- Gamma and optional neutron radiation detection. The MP100’s PVT gamma radiation detectors detect gamma radiation emitted by medical and industrial isotopes, which can be used in a dirty bomb. They also detect Special Nuclear Materials, such as uranium and plutonium, which are needed for a nuclear weapon. The addition of optional Boron-10 neutron radiation detectors enables the MP100 to detect Special Nuclear Materials that are shielded, such as in a dense metal container.
- Meets U.S. and international standards. The radiation detection performance of the MP100 meets the requirements of U.S. and international standards for backpack radiation monitors. The U.S. standard, ANSI N42.53, and its international equivalent, IEC 62694, address homeland security concerns and illicit trafficking inspection applications.
- Integrates with Android mobile devices. The MP100 can be operated as a standalone radiation monitor with alarms signaled audibly in the operator’s earpiece. Alternatively, the MP100 can connect wirelessly to a mobile Android device, such as a smartphone or tablet, running the free Rapiscan RadViewer app. With its intuitive graphical user interface, Rapiscan’s RadViewer presents a wealth of information about radiation measurements and alarms and helps direct the operator to a radiation source.
“Today’s terrorists don’t need special nuclear materials, such as uranium and plutonium, to create chaos. A small quantity of radioactive material that is routinely and safely employed in medical and industrial applications can cause significant radiation contamination to a wide area when part of a dirty bomb,” said Pak Chin, president of Rapiscan Systems. “The MP100 applies Rapiscan design principles and technology to a practical, high performing, portable radiation detection solution that is suitable for a variety of use cases. It’s one of the lightest and easiest to use systems available today.”
The MP100 was designed for many different applications. Operators can use the solution to inspect areas where crowds have gathered for an event, such as stadiums or arenas; to detect radioactive material at mass transit stations and vehicle checkpoints; and to protect critical infrastructure and measure radiation around a facility, such as a nuclear power plant.