A Short History
Research into radiation reconnaissance first started in the 1980s amidst speculation of a possible nuclear war. Devices meant to measure radiation were first made in Hungary for use in the battlefield. However, the failings of technological expertise meant that these devices were not very effective. It was after the Chernobyl disaster in 1986 that more serious research was conducted in this field, so as to perform a thorough analysis of the results of the disaster. Since these times, we have seen quite a few advancements made in the field.
Purpose
In a nutshell, radiation reconnaissance equipment aims to detect and identify the source of a radiation leak or contamination, and then create a contamination map that highlights areas of high and low contamination. Reconnaissance is the first step towards reducing the irradiation dose and starting the process of decontamination. The data collected through radiation reconnaissance goes towards creating input for computer models in a way that would allow for forecasts, and thus solutions, for particular situations. The device that can collect the best possible data can therefore provide the best possible information needed to come up with the best protection measures. In the field environment, a device like the MKS-UM is needed, which not only provides accurate full-range radiation survey data, but can do so under harsh conditions, such as severe desert heat.
Applications
Radiation reconnaissance is an important factor in quite a few industries.
Radiological laboratories
Obviously, there is always the risk of radiation poisoning due to prolonged exposure to radiation sources in radiological laboratories. The researchers and scientists working at these labs are therefore required to have accurate information on their daily dose of radiation absorption in order to minimize health scares. The MKS-UM can help measure gamma and X-ray radiation, as well as the accumulation time of the radiation. In this way, radiation threats can very quickly be detected, identified, localized and dealt with.
Radioactive Waste Storage Sites
These sites are another type of area that poses a very real risk of radiation poisoning. These places require constant monitoring in order to ensure there are no leaks or contamination. Again, a device like the MKS-UM can help identify leaks as quickly as possible. The dosimeter can measure gamma and beta radiation as well as alpha. Plus, the device is user-friendly, with its reduced weight and dimension parameters. It’s also easy to handle even if the user is wearing rubber gloves for protection.
Nuclear Power Industry
The nuclear industry needs devices like the MKS-UM in order to continuously monitor indoors and outdoors areas, and to swiftly detect and identify the location of gamma, beta, alpha and neutron radiation sources. The latter is made easier by the device’s analog indicator of radiation intensity, which aids in the process of localization. Additionally, the lithium-ion battery is memory effect free, meaning that it is capable of holding a lot more charge, and so does not need to be recharged frequently by personnel.
Law enforcement agencies
Ranging from security and safeguard services to the army, various law enforcement agencies are going to need devices to aid with radiation control. Military ecologists need them to examine military firing ranges and similar facilities within the international program of non-proliferation of WMDs. The Ministry of Internal Affairs uses devices like the MKS-UM to detect and identify radiation sources. Security services use them for similar reasons, for radiation surveillance and personal protection.
The MKS-UM’s high protection rating and rubber protective case make it a prime candidate for usage in harsh conditions, which agencies like these frequently encounter. Other key features that would suit these agencies include the backlit indicator and control keys that allow operation in the dark. It also has a wide operating temperature range.
Emergency Services and Civil Defense
Civil defense, firefighting and rescue troops might require devices to detect and localize radiation sources. To this end, the MKS-UM helps with the measurement of the ambient dose equivalent rate of gamma radiation. The nonvolatile memory can also hold up to 1500 measurement results tagged to location coordinates. Additionally, the device holds up even in difficult environmental conditions, such as dusty atmosphere or atmospheric precipitation, making it ideal for troops.