Multi-parameter optimization of a (3He-252Cf-3He) neutron backscattering sensor for landmine detection

Experimental measurements were carried out to optimize the performance of a (He-3-Cf-252-He-3) assembly for plastic anti-personnel landmine detection in dry soils. This is done by employing a Cf-252 source producing 0.7 x 10(4) n. s(-1) and a pair of two identical He-3 detectors. The Signal-to-background ratio due to the responses of the two He-3 detectors is monitored and analyzed as a function of detector-detector distance, stand-off distance, mine depth and source position while scanning the mine. The laboratory measurements were followed by Monte Carlo simulations to explore the capabilities of the laboratory measurements in the presence of Cf-252 sources producing 10(4)n. s(-1) and 10(6)n.s(-1). The optimal Cf-252 source was selected and employed in further Monte Carlo simulations to study the impact of a multi-layer shield on the performance of the (He-3-Cf-252-He-3) assembly. (C) 2017 The Egyptian Society of Radiation Sciences and Applications. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V.