Energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction system with a spiral-array structure for security inspection

Energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDXRD) is a promising technique for detecting drugs and explosives in security inspections. In this study, we proposed an EDXRD structure with a spiral-array of detectors that can be used for the detection of thick objects. The detectors are configured to share the same diffraction angle, and the detection area of the system is multiplied along the optical axis. Based on the spiral-array structure, an experimental system with 5 CdTe detectors was established. Experimental results demonstrate that the accurate data can be acquired at different positions within the 250-mm detection area, and the data measured by 5 detectors have a good consistency. This work may provide a new and commercial method for the detection of thick luggage in the field of security inspection.