Computational Models to Detect Radiation in Urban Environments: An Application of Signal Processing Techniques and Neural Networks to Radiation Data Analysis

Authors

Jose Nicolas Gachancipa, StudentFollow

Faculty Mentor

Mihhail Berezovski

Abstract

Radioactive sources, such as uranium-235, are nuclides that emit ionizing radiation, and which can be used to build nuclear weapons. In public areas, the presence of a radioactive nuclide can present a risk to the population, and therefore, it is imperative that threats are identified by radiological search and response teams in a timely and effective manner. In urban environments, such as densely populated cities, radioactive sources may be more difficult to detect, since background radiation produced by surrounding objects and structures (e.g., buildings, cars) can hinder the effective detection of unnatural radioactive material. This article presents a computational model to detect radioactive sources in urban environments, which uses signal processing techniques to identify radiation signatures. Moreover, the model uses artificial neural networks to identify types of radiation sources, classifying them as innocuous or harmful, and discerning between weapons-grade material and radioactive isotopes used in medical or industrial settings.

Recommended Citation

Gachancipa, Jose Nicolas (2022) "Computational Models to Detect Radiation in Urban Environments: An Application of Signal Processing Techniques and Neural Networks to Radiation Data Analysis," Beyond: Undergraduate Research Journal: Vol. 6 , Article 2.
Available at: https://commons.erau.edu/beyond/vol6/iss1/2