ANSTO develops new radiation sensing device

A team at the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) has created a new portable device that can pinpoint the location of radiation sources, faster and more accurately than ever before.

The new technology has potential in a range of fields including national security, customs, decommissioning of old reactors and nuclear operations.

ANSTO’s CORIS360 (main picture and below), launched at this month’s IEEE International Nuclear Science Symposium and Medical Imaging Conference in Boston, produces fast, precise and high-quality 360-degree images that identify the location, type and amount of radiation in an area.

Acting ANSTO CEO Shaun Jenkinson said: “There are many Australian industries that can benefit from CORIS360 including mining and minerals, health, border security and defence, and the wider nuclear industry globally.”

Developed over seven years by a team headed by ANSTO principal scientist, Dr David Boardman, the device works by harnessing compressed sensing technology, which is comparable to directly taking a compressed photo with a camera.

Boardman said: “By using compressed sensing technology, we can work faster, creating a safer operating environment for workers.

“The images are clear and easy to interpret.

“The fact it is remotely-operated is particularly important. This means that personnel can minimise time spent in any potentially radioactive environments.”

Pictures: ANSTO/CORIS360

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