Technology from GE Providing New Radiation Detection Methods
GE Addresses Helium-3 Shortage with New Detector Technology Based on Boron-10
TWINSBURG, OHIO - GE's (NYSE: GE) announces an addition to its Reuter Stokes product line, a radiation detection solution using boron-10 (10B) to detect radiation in homeland security applications. Traditionally, sensors used for these applications have used helium-3 (3He) as their detection medium; however, the global supply of helium-3 is severely depleted. In response to the global helium-3 shortage, GE developed a replacement detector technology based on boron-10. These detectors are key components of radiation portal monitors used in a wide range of applications including screening at borders and ports, and GE is the only company to date to develop detectors having the accuracy of a helium-3 detector.
"Our early awareness of the helium-3 shortage allowed GE to take the appropriate steps to research, identify and develop boron-10 as a viable alternative," said Tom Anderson, leader-Reuter Stokes Measurement Solutions product line for GE Energy Services. "While detectors come in all shapes and sizes, it's the sensitivity and ability to accurately measure neutron radiation levels without false alarms that is most important. We developed sensors using boron-10 that fit that criteria."
GE is the largest manufacturer of helium-3 neutron detectors in the world. Since 9/11, GE has manufactured more than 40,000 helium-3 detectors, which support homeland security and nuclear safeguards programs worldwide. GE's new Boron-10 Neutron Detection Module will be deployed in place of, and potentially as a replacement for, helium-3 detectors that are currently deployed in radiation portal monitors.
For more information visit us at: http://www.ge-energy.com/prod_serv/products/oc/en/reuterstokes.htm
GE's measurement and control solutions deliver accuracy, productivity and safety to a wide range of industries, including oil and gas, power generation, aerospace, transportation and healthcare. It has over 40 facilities in 25 countries and is part of GE Energy Services, which provides cleaner, smarter, more efficient solutions for its customers. For further information visit, www.gesensinginspection.com
About GE
GE (NYSE: GE) is a diversified infrastructure, finance and media company taking on the world's toughest challenges. From aircraft engines and power generation to financial services, health care solutions and television programming, GE operates in more than 100 countries and employs about 300,000 people worldwide. For more information, visit the company's website at www.ge.com.
GE serves the energy sector by developing and deploying technology that helps make efficient use of natural resources. With nearly 85,000 global employees and 2009 revenues of $40 billion, GE Energy www.ge.com/energy is one of the world's leading suppliers of power generation and energy delivery technologies. The businesses that comprise GE Energy-GE Power & Water, GE Energy Services and GE Oil & Gas-work together to provide integrated product and service solutions in all areas of the energy industry including coal, oil, natural gas and nuclear energy; renewable resources such as water, wind, solar and biogas; and other alternative fuels.
Media contacts:
Amanda Fontaine
GE Measurement & Control Solutions
Phone: +1 978 437 1446
Email: amanda.fontaine4@ge.com
