Neutron Radiography
Definition
Imaging technique using a thermal-neutron beam that penetrates dense metal and resolves light-element components like explosives, plastics and adhesives. Rare; used for IED examination at DRDO and select NSG facilities.
- Beam type
- Thermal neutron
- Resolves
- Light-element components (explosives, plastics, adhesives)
- Use case
- IED examination
- India context
- DRDO and select NSG facilities
Common questions
How does neutron radiography differ from X-ray imaging for IEDs?+
X-rays are attenuated mainly by dense metal parts, while neutrons interact strongly with light elements, so neutron radiography reveals explosive or plastic components that X-ray images obscure.
Why is neutron radiography rarely used outside specialised facilities?+
Generating a usable thermal-neutron beam requires a reactor or accelerator-based neutron source, which few forensic or defence facilities possess.
Related terms
- Alternate Light Source (ALS)
- A device emitting light at selected wavelengths (typically 415 to 535 nm) used to detect biological fluids that fluoresce or absorb light...
- Detective Dye
- A powder (typically anthracene or phenolphthalein-based) applied to banknotes or surfaces. Transfers to the suspect's hands on contact; anthracene fluoresces under UV...
- Electromagnetic Spectrum
- The full range of electromagnetic radiation by wavelength, from gamma rays (shortest) to radio waves (longest). Forensic devices use UV, visible, IR...
- Fluorescence
- Light emission following absorption of light at a shorter (higher-energy) wavelength. Fluorescein absorbs blue-green excitation light and emits yellow-green light. The emitted...
- IR Reflectance
- Imaging under near-infrared illumination (715-1000 nm) to differentiate inks by their IR absorption: carbon-based inks remain dark, many synthetic dye inks become...