X-ray, CT, etc.) offers the potential for improved detection specificity, wider detection envelope and lower false alarm rates. Finally, Carbon Nanotubes (CNT)
imaging which relies on the use of Cadmium Telluride (CdTe or CZT) based X-ray detectors. Such detectors have become more readily available and a key feature is their ability to detect and separate out the entire energy spectrum emitted by an X-ray source into many different bands which allows better material identification compared to other X-ray detection techniques (as different materials absorb differently the various energy bands of X-rays). The integration of Multi-spectral X-ray imaging with other methods of X-ray imaging (e.g. Transmission
are a very recent development in X-ray technology. CNT layers (as a cathode) that emit electrons at room temperature when exposed to an electrical current have been integrated into X-ray systems. Such arrays of these emitters can be placed around an object to be scanned and the images from each emitter can be assembled by computer software to provide a 3D image of the object in a fraction of the time it takes using conventional X-ray devices. Conventional X-ray machines consist of a long tube with a highly heated metal electron emitter (1,000 degrees Celsius) and a metal electrode at the other. The electrons are accelerated along the tube and strike the metal electrode, creating X-rays. Instead of a single metal emitter, the CNT X-ray technology is based on an array of vertical carbon nanotubes that serve as hundreds of tiny electron guns which can emit electrons from their tips instantly when a voltage is applied to them at room temperature. CNT emitters use less energy than conventional X-ray tubes leading to lower operational costs and that may lead to the development of faster and more cost-effective 3D CT systems and other X-ray applications.
Summary
X-ray technology and its various applications have had a significant impact on human lives in many fields including healthcare, astronomy and specifically homeland and aviation security. While X-ray technology has been in use since the late 19th century, it has evolved dramatically since then and has a wide range of applications in each field. In aviation security, X-ray systems have significantly evolved since airlines, airports and governments started using them in the 1960s and now allow more accurate and efficient passenger and baggage screening with X-ray techniques such as Multi-View Dual-Energy and CT. Finally, X-ray technology still holds much promise for further improvements with techniques such as CXRS, CNT and Multi-Spectral X-ray.
Amir Neeman is the VP of Government Business with Qylur Security Systems - a revolutionary homeland security technology start-up company, developing a novel security checkpoint screening system for mass-public venues. Prior to joining Qylur, Amir was the Security Planning Leader (Director) with LeighFisher Inc. In 2001-2005, Amir was with GE/ InVision Technologies, Inc., as leader of Product Management and from 1991 to 2001, Amir held various positions within the Israeli Security Agency (ISA) and the Israeli Airports Authority. He can be contacted at:
aneeman@qylur.com.
December 2012 Aviationsecurityinternational
www.asi-mag.com
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