Backscatter X-ray
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In contrast to the traditional X-ray machine, which detects hard and soft materials by the variation in transmission through the target, backscatter X-ray is a newer imaging system which detects the radiation which comes back from the target.
The resolution of the resulting images is quite high. Some backscatter X-ray scanners are able to penetrate up to 12" (30cm) of solid steel. As such, the technology is in use to search containers and trucks much more quickly than performing a physical search, and potentially allow a larger percentage of shipping to be checked for smuggled items or weapons. According to Farren Technology, the technology exists to scan areas as far as 50 meters away from the device, producing 3D images of people's bodies and the weapons they might be hiding, for example [1].
The technology has been proposed as an alternative to personal searches at airport and other security checkpoints, since it can easily penetrate clothing and reveal concealed weapons and other items. Privacy advocates are opposed to this use of the technology, since it appears to screeners essentially as a nude picture of the subject.
[edit] External links
- New Scientist article Overview of the technology that includes images showing how a search of an air passenger appears to security screeners
- American Science and Engineering - pioneers in the field.
- University of Florida Reseach - High Resolution Scatter X-ray Imaging
- Rapiscan Systems - Manufacturer of the SECURE 1000 People Screening System
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