Patent ID: 9689814
Date: 2017-06-27
CPC Classifications: G01N

Claim:
1. A chemical detection system, comprising: a frame; an emitter coupled to the frame and configured to direct neutrons at an object to be tested that is positioned external to the frame; a detector coupled to the frame proximate the emitter; and a shielding system coupled to the frame and positioned at least partially between the emitter and the detector, the shielding system comprising a moderator block comprising a thermoplastic material and partially surrounding the emitter, the moderator block configured to alter fast neutrons emitted by the emitter in a direction away from the object to one of slow neutrons or thermal neutrons and to redirect the one of the slow neutrons or the thermal neutrons back toward the object to be tested, the moderator block comprising an opening configured to provide at least some fast neutrons emitted by the emitter in a direction toward the object a direct path of travel to the object to be tested, wherein the emitter, the detector, and the shielding system are each positioned within and encompassed by the frame, wherein the frame positions a sensing surface of the detector in a direction substantially parallel to a plane positioned external to the frame and extending along a front portion of the frame, wherein the frame positions the emitter and the shielding system to each extend along the plane, wherein the emitter, the detector, and the shielding system are positioned in a linear row extending parallel to the plane, and wherein the frame orients a centerline of the sensing surface of the detector and a slot of the emitter to be a same distance from a base of the frame.