Inside a smoke detector are two metal plates, one positive and one negative, with air space in between. Whether the bands indicated the contents of the cylinders, however, was unclear. However, nuclear techniques don't directly relate to molecules. PINS processes the pulse of the detector in 5-microsecond intervals. We want to process lots of information, not just a few bits of data.
PINS can detect elements through multiple-wall containers.
The neutrons will travel through the overpack and can produce a reading. The detection took 200 seconds. Currently, there are 23 PINS units in operation around the world. All have been sold for military applications. PINS allowed Raunig's team to accelerate its removal action last fall.