New Technique Uses Laser-Generated “Lightning Ball” to Detect Radiation
Detecting radiation is crucial for national security, but achieving this effectively from a distance is challenging. Scientists at the University of Maryland have developed an innovative technique involving lasers to create a small “lightning ball” capable of detecting radiation from at least 10 meters away. This method shows promise for detecting radioactive materials even up to 100 meters away, enhancing current standoff radiation detection capabilities.
Traditional detectors rely on radioactive decay particles interacting with sensors in close proximity to the source. However, the University of Maryland physicists have introduced a new approach using an infrared pulsed carbon laser to detect alpha particles from highly radioactive substances like polonium-210. While the initial laboratory experiment was limited to a 10-meter range, the researchers believe that scaling up to 100 meters is feasible, marking a significant advancement in standoff radiation detection technology.
This laser-based technique leverages the interaction between lasers and free electrons to create plasma balls that indicate the radioactive source’s activity. The process involves adding energy to free electrons, causing them to collide with air molecules and generate more free electrons. The resulting backscattering provides valuable information about the radioactive material present.
The research team, led by Howard Milchberg, has explored this laser approach for over a decade, envisioning applications such as deploying lasers on trucks for inspecting urban areas and port containers. Their recent study introduced a carbon pulsed laser capable of creating an “electron avalanche” for radiation detection, building upon previous achievements with mid-infrared lasers.
By inducing detectable events through laser-generated electron avalanches, this new carbon pulsed laser extends the range of remote radiation detection to 10 meters, a significant improvement over previous results. This advancement showcases the potential for enhancing radiation detection capabilities beyond current standards.
The potential reach of this technique is just the beginning. The ultimate objective is long-range detection, but in order to determine the full extent of this laser’s ability to sense radiation, a larger laboratory will be required.
