Tamper Sensor for Safeguarding Radiological Sources

Panoramic irradiators are commonly used to disinfect and sterilize products such as medical supplies, cosmetic raw materials, food, food containers, and medical supplies. The irradiators typically use Cobalt 60 as a source of radiation — a material that could potentially be used to build a “dirty bomb.” As a result, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission requires installation of a security system for each irradiator; however, current electronic security systems have a short lifespan due to the fact that the radiation source must be stored in a pool of water.