EMCCD imaging of strongly ionizing radioactive materials for safety and security

In this work, an electron-multiplying camera is introduced for the first time for rapid alpha imaging in a glovebox. To demonstrate the technique, fuel pellets containing uranium and plutonium isotopes were measured at the Institute for Transuranium Elements, Karlsruhe. Further development of the EMCCD imaging system can evolve to a viable tool for security and safety officials around the world. The method has potential to be used in crime scene investigation if illicit use of alpha active materials is suspected. Other applications lie in the field of nuclear industry and especially in decommissioning of old facilities.