Radioactive sources are used for different purposes in industry, medicine, military and in research. The associated risks are known. With proper and responsible handling are accidents and the loss of these sources rarely. Radiation sources, which passed on without permission or get lost (called “orphan” sources), are a risk. These “orphan” sources may also be discovered by individuals who are unaware of the risks that they entail. Radioactive sources are regularly found in scrap yards and facilities of metal processing and represent a threat to the people and the environment. Against the backdrop of the global import and export of ferrous and non ferrous scrap metal the radiological monitoring of these materials is thus becoming increasingly important.

As part of the research project MerEN, a monitoring system with integrated measuring sensors for radioactive ferrous and non ferrous scrap metal is to be developed. This is the first time in a shredder to be actively monitored and measured. In addition, the portability of the system on a scrap shear and a press is planned. The operator of the scrap-metal sites have the opportunity to detect radioactively contaminated material at an early stage - before a possible radioactive source is crushed and mixed with non-radioactive material. After detection of a radioactive source, the user receives an instruction on how to proceed. This leads to an increase in product purity and in occupational health and safety of persons and the environment.

Analysis of the actual situation

Definition of a monitoring concept with integrated measuring sensors

Development of a monitoring system with integrated measuring sensors

Verification of the system, adaptation and final vote