This section provides an overview for radiation detectors as well as their applications and principles. Also, please take a look at the list of 26 radiation detector manufacturers and their company rankings. Here are the top-ranked radiation detector companies as of November, 2024: 1.LANDAUER, 2.Spectrum Control, 3.Moxtek, Inc..
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1993~2019: Engaged in pharmaceutical research and development and analysis of various biological samples at the Pharmaceutical Research Institute of Japan Kayaku Co., Ltd. He is also in charge of facility management as a dangerous goods handler and radiation handling chief.
2019: Moved to another company in the same industry and has been in charge of similar work until now.
He also writes, translates, and edits specialized books.
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/makoto-niwa-25331040/
Researchmap: https://researchmap.jp/0000-0002-2355-1222/
A radiation detector is a device that detects and measures radiation indirectly by using the physical and chemical reactions caused by the interaction of radiation and matter.
Humans cannot sense radiation directly with the five senses. Therefore, detection and measurement are performed using ionization and excitation caused by radiation. For example, ions, free electrons, and electromagnetic waves such as fluorescence are generated, which are converted into electric current signals. Based on this current signal, the radiation dose can be displayed on a meter or made audible as a sound.
There are many other applications, such as detectors based on electron emission, detectors that use heat generation, detectors based on the practical use of neutron material activation, and detectors based on the detection of Cherenkov light.
Radiation detectors are widely used in radiation decontamination sites, yards, and factories. There are different types of radiation, such as alpha, gamma, beta, and X-rays, and they emit high to low doses. Therefore, the detector itself must be carefully selected according to the situation.
By measuring the air dose rate, it is possible to determine how much radiation is flying around in space. Also, by detecting radiation emitted from the surface of an object, it is possible to determine whether the object is contaminated and to identify the source of contamination. In addition, radiation detectors can be used to measure the level of radiation exposure of a person.
There are two main types of radiation detectors: those that use the ionizing effect of radiation on gas molecules and those that use the excitation of electrons in materials, mainly solids and liquids.
The former is called a gas detector and the latter a scintillation detector.
In a gas detector, the detector is filled with a gas such as inert gas or air, and when radiation passes through it, the molecules ionize to produce cations and electrons. The ionization of these gas molecules is used to measure the amount of radiation. There are several types of expectation detectors, such as ionization chambers, GM countertube, and proportional countertube.
Ionization Chamber
In an ionization chamber, cations and electrons are attracted to electrodes respectively and converted into electrical signals for measurement. The number of cations and electrons ionized by the energy of the radiation is converted directly into an electrical signal, so the signal intensity is almost proportional to the energy of the radiation. In other words, it is possible to determine the energy of the radiation. The disadvantage, however, is that the sensitivity is low because the ionization is directly observed.
GM counter
In a GM counter, a gas is charged in the same way as in an ionization chamber, but by applying a high voltage between the electrodes, the electrons generated by ionization move at high speed, causing other gas molecules to become ionized. This allows a strong signal to be obtained.
As a result, one pulse is run between the electrodes for each ionization. A strong signal is obtained, but the disadvantage is that no information about the energy of the radiation is obtained because the signal is a pulse.
Proportional counter
When the voltage applied between the electrodes of a detector filled with gas is appropriately adjusted, ionization of other gas molecules occurs following ionization by radiation, producing a strong signal, and a signal proportional to the number of molecules first ionized can also be obtained. The type that measures these conditions is a proportional counter.
Scintillation detectors utilize the effect of radiation on electrons in orbit around an atomic nucleus, which is then excited and transferred to an outer orbital. An example of an instrument is a scintillation survey meter.
A material that has the property of emitting light via excitation by radiation is called a scintillator. Sodium iodide (NaI) crystals are used as solid crystal scintillators. When radiation is absorbed by the scintillator, the atoms become unstable due to electronic excitation and then return to their original stable state. During this process, the atoms emit energy as light.
This weak light (photon) is amplified by a photomultiplier tube and converted into an electric current for measurement. Since the number of photons emitted is proportional to the energy of the radiation, scintillation detectors can determine the energy of the radiation.
Since NaI crystals are hygroscopic, they are sealed to prevent exposure to air. On the other hand, an incident window is provided where the radiation enters the detector. The incident window is made of a very thin metal with a very low atomic number, such as beryllium or aluminum, about 100 μm in thickness.
When selecting radiation detectors, it is important to check the following items:
There are different types of radiation: alpha rays, beta rays, neutron rays, gamma rays, and X-rays. The structure and principle of radiation detectors determine the type of radiation that can be detected and the expected sensitivity, so it is important to select a detector with an understanding of these factors.
The selection of a detector should be based on the suitability of the displayed value (whether it is a simple count or a 1 cm dose equivalent, etc.) for the intended use.
Since radiation must reach the site of ionization (gas or solid scintillator) to be detected, understanding radiation permeability allows for confident operation. For example, NaI scintillation survey meters are for gamma and X-ray measurements. This is because they cannot detect radiation that cannot penetrate the thin metal window (alpha and beta rays). After all, they must be sealed around a scintillator that is hygroscopic.
Some GM counters are capable of measuring beta radiation, while others are not. The type that can measure beta rays is the one with a large window and a very thin mica window. Beta rays can pass through this mica window. GM counters that can measure both beta and gamma radiation have a metal cap, but the metal cap must be removed for beta measurement. Beta rays do not penetrate the metal cap.
There are two main purposes of radiation measurement.
Scintillation detectors using solid scintillator crystals are used to measure high-energy X-rays and even higher-energy gamma rays. The scintillation detector is characterized by its ability to detect X-rays in proportion to their energy since the scintillator efficiently receives and detects X-rays.
This feature is different from gas detectors, which cannot catch high-energy X-rays. In addition, the time from the time the X-rays enter the detector to the time they are converted into an electrical signal and output is very short, making it suitable for measurements when there are many incident X-ray photons. In the research field, position-detecting high-energy X-ray detectors have also been developed, which utilize the advantages of the scintillation type to acquire a two-dimensional image of X-rays.
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Moxtek, Inc. is an ISO 9001-certified manufacturer of advanced X-ray and nano-optical components founded in 1986 and based in Orem, Utah, USA. The company’s products are designed for imaging devices, display electronics, and analytical instrumentation. These include portable and benchtop x-ray instruments, high- and low-energy x-ray windows, and wire-grid polarizers for visible to near-infrared applications. The company’s products have applications in various industries such as transportation, energy storage manufacturing, and the security industry.
Bruker, founded in 1960 and based in Billerica, Massachusetts, is a manufacturer and distributor of scientific instruments and analytical and diagnostic solutions. The company's product range includes analyzers, microscopes, and imaging solutions, which have applications in fields such as life science research, cell biology, and microbiology. In 1969, the company developed the world's first FT-NMR spectrometer system, enabling broadband proton decoupling. In 1997, it further expanded its capabilities by acquiring the analytical X-ray division of Siemens AG. The company holds ISO 9001 and ISO 13485 certifications, and its products are available for sale worldwide.
LANDAUER is a manufacturer that specializes in radiation measurement and monitoring solutions based in the United States. Founded in 1954, the company offers a comprehensive range of radiation dosimetry products and services. Its offerings include personal dosimeters, area monitors, environmental monitoring solutions, and consulting services. These products and services are utilized in industries such as healthcare, nuclear power, industrial applications, and more. By providing accurate radiation measurement tools, the company helps organizations ensure the safety of workers and the environment in radiation-prone settings.
Spectrum Control serves several markets including the wireless communication, military communication, aerospace, and high temperature industrial markets. Among the individual components Spectrum Control manufactures and develops are EMI filters; subsystems for signal conditioning and RF distribution; components including power dividers, limiters, filters, amplifiers, diode drivers, and rotary joints; as well secure communications solutions and rugged devices.
Hitachi High Tech was established in April 1947 and operates in 26 countries with products and services ranging from semiconductor manufacturing equipment and Medical and Biosystems to Analytical Systems and Manufacturing related equipment and solutions. A unique state-of-the-art technology company with two functions as a manufacturer and a trading company with the motto of "Tackling social issues," the Hitachi High-Tech Group aspires to be a company that pursues not only economic value, such as revenue and profit, but also provides social and environmental value by contributing to resolving social issues through its business activities, including products and services. They also provide one-stop services, such as evaluations and analysis at a global level.
Mirion Technologies, Inc., established in 2005 and headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, is a global service provider in radiation safety, science, and medicine. With a rich history dating back to its origins between 1950 and 2004, Mirion's journey has included expansion into healthcare and ongoing advancements in radiation safety technologies. The company’s products and services are aimed at protecting people and the planet from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation. With a diverse portfolio of products and services, Mirion serves across various end markets, from radiation detection and measurement to diagnostic imaging and radiation therapy and more.
Top-Electronics USA is based in Tucson, Arizona, USA, and is a distributor of electronic modules and components that was established in 2016 as a subsidiary of the Dutch company TOP-electronics. The company stocks a range of electronic products from brands such as Northern Mechatronics, LM Technologies, and 2J Antennas. These products include motion control modules, internet of things (IoT) modules, and power converters. It also offers embeddable computers and displays, as well as spare connectors and cables for products on stock. The company mainly markets to its clients in the automotive, telecom, and consumer electronics industries.
Siap Micros S.p.A. is an Italian environmental monitoring sensor manufacturer that was established in San Fior in 2003 following the merger of SIAP Bologna and MICROS. The company primarily produces hydrology, meteorology, and air quality monitoring products, which include sensors, stations, and software. These are commonly used in industrial and civil engineering applications, as well as in agricultural (e.g. soil assessment) and renewable energy projects. Aside from its products, the company also offers turnkey design, engineering, installation and maintenance services to clients requiring additional support.
Teledyne DALSA was established in 1980 in Ontario, Canada, and is known as the manufacturer, designer, and marketer of digital imaging products and solutions. The imaging products which the company deals in include industry-standard digital frame grabbers, area and line scan image sensors, and laser profiling 3D sensors. The inventory also includes X-ray detectors, infrared detectors, and various systems and software to run the equipment. There are also MEMs and semiconductors for different applications. The industries that benefit from these products are aerospace, medical and life sciences, machine vision and inspection, nondestructive testing, and more.
BFR Systems, originally established in 1959 as Lassoundry and currently headquartered in Valencia, Spain, is a manufacturer of food processing machines and systems. The company's products include meat, snacks, and pet food processing machines. It expanded its range of products to include the chemical processing and packaging of liquid and household cleaning powder products. It also manufactures custom assembly lines, robotic equipment, and fully automated production lines. The company's after-sales services include the supply of spare parts, equipment leasing, and operator training programs backed up by remote assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days per year.
Founded in 1915, Canon Electron Tubes & Devices Co., Ltd. is a Japanese manufacturer operating under Canon, Inc. The company's headquarters is located in Otawara, Tochigi, with representative offices in Tokyo, China, the USA, and Europe. The company introduced Japan's first X-ray tube in 1915. Since then, it has developed various components incorporating X-ray tubes for medical, industrial, and scientific applications. Additionally, the company produces environmentally conscious products (ECPs) to minimize environmental impact. For example, the multi-beam klystron can be operated with a low operating voltage for a relatively longer period of time due to the optimized cathode loading.
HORIBA RADIO LABORATORY was established in Japan in 1945 and has spent the last three-quarters of a century growing as an R&D company and engaged in international operations. HORIBA Scientific offers 200 years of experience developing high-performance scientific instruments and analytical solutions. The HORIBA Group of worldwide companies provides an extensive array of instruments and systems for applications ranging from automotive R&D, process and environmental monitoring, in-vitro medical diagnostics, semiconductor manufacturing, and metrology to a broad range of scientific R&D and QC measurements. Operating in Asia, Europe, and North and South America, HORIBA scientific develops solutions that go beyond just products.
Power Device Corporation is based in Bohemia, New York, United States, and is a manufacturer of power and motion control technology products originally founded as Data Device Corporation in 1964. The company’s product lineup includes its SpaceVPX Rad Hard SBC brand SWaP-optimized single board computers, and solid-state power controllers for power distribution or control in MILSPEC systems. It also offers SDRAM modules with capacities of 2-4 gigabytes. The company is AS9100:2016, ISO 14001:2015, and SC21 Bronze Star-certifed, and mainly serves the defense and aerospace sectors.
WoMaster is a manufacturer of industrial products. The company offers goods for critical applications such as railway, power and utility, intelligent transportation, and smart city surveillance. The company's R&D team owns critical IIOT hardware and software technologies. With full SMT, DIP, assembly, and test lines, the company EMS has produced industrial devices for more than 20 years. The company EMS passes ISO9001:2015 and ISO14001:2015 quality certificates. The company provides SW and HW (ASIC) integrated protection mechanisms that apply the latest application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) secure technology.
Baker Hughes Co. (BHC) is an American service provider and manufacturer of industrial oilfield equipment that was established in 1987 following the merger of Baker International and Hughes Tool Company. Based in Houston, Texas, the company produces several categories of oilfield products including drilling equipment, pipe and subsea production systems, generators, and storage systems. It also offers process control components and actuators such as pumps, valves and regulators. BHC provides various services for oilfield and liquefied natural gas (LNG) operations, including regasification, well construction, transportation, and storage.
Polimaster Holdings Corporation, established in 2004 and headquartered in Sterling, Virginia, United States, is a radiation control equipment and instrument manufacturer and supplier. The company's products include X-ray and gamma radiation dosimeters, radiation portal monitors, and personal radiation detectors. It also supplies radion identification devices, hand-held radiation monitors, and mobile detection systems. These products are used in various sectors, including nuclear power plants, medical facilities, and industrial safety systems, and are available through a network of distributors across Latin America, Europe, Asia.
Teledyne FLIR LLC, originally known as FLIR Systems and founded in 1978, is an American manufacturer headquartered in Wilsonville, Oregon, specializing in thermal imaging cameras and sensors, now operating as a subsidiary of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated. FLIR (Forward-Looking Infrared) offers handheld and fixed mount thermal cameras, thermal security cameras, thermography cameras, machine vision cameras, and gas detection cameras. They provide airborne systems, unmanned aerial and ground systems, land and maritime systems, and traffic management software. These products find applications in various fields and industries, such as airborne law enforcement, border and maritime patrol, critical infrastructure and force protection, search and rescue operations.
Teledyne ICM, founded in 1993 and based in Andrimont, Belgium, is a manufacturer and distributor of portable radiography solutions. The company provides a diverse product catalog, including detectors, standalone systems, portable X-ray systems, generators, and security products, among others. These radiography solutions find applications such as using detectors for security inspections to analyze suspicious objects, employing non-destructive testing for the radiography of welds or cracks, as well as detecting corrosion under insulation.
FujiFilm Corporation, founded in 1934 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is a manufacturer of a wide range of products, including instant photo systems, electronic materials, and medical systems. The company provides products and services for the healthcare, materials, and imaging sectors and has over 250 worldwide consolidated subsidiaries. In 1948, the company entered the camera and optical devices business when it launched its first camera called the FUJICA SIX IA, and in 1949, its shares were listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. In 2008, it entered the pharmaceuticals business when it acquired Toyama Chemical Co. Ltd.
Electro Optical Components Inc., founded in 1997 and based in Santa Rosa, California, is a distributor of special electronic components such as infrared detectors, electronic amplifiers, and gas sensors. It represents European companies in North America, some of which include IMM Photonics GmbH, LBP Optics, and LED Microsensor NT. The company has a turnover of between $2,000,000 and $5,000,000 and supports several charities around Sonoma County, including Windsor Rotary, The Living Room, and Salvation Army. It has also awarded over 100 scholarships to bright students from Sonoma State University and Santa Rosa Junior College.
PHOTONIS, a well-reputed French company founded in 1937, specializes in manufacturing electro-optic components and detectors. They offer a wide range of products, including photomultiplier tubes, image intensifiers, and microchannel plates. PHOTONIS serves various industries, such as scientific research, defence, medical, and industrial applications. Their products are used in applications like night view, mass spectral analysis, and space exploration. PHOTONIS is present internationally with offices and distributors in different countries. Devoted to excellence and environmental responsibility with various certifications, ensuring reliability and safety for customers.
Ranking as of November 2024
Derivation MethodRank | Company | Click Share |
---|---|---|
1 | LANDAUER |
12.1%
|
2 | Spectrum Control |
7.1%
|
3 | Moxtek, Inc. |
6.7%
|
4 | Bruker Corporation |
5.4%
|
5 | HORIBA |
5.4%
|
6 | Hitachi High-Tech America, Inc. |
5.4%
|
7 | AMPTEK, Inc. |
4.2%
|
8 | TOP-electronics USA |
4.2%
|
9 | Teledyne Digital Imaging Inc. |
4.2%
|
10 | LND, INC |
3.8%
|
Derivation Method
The ranking is calculated based on the click share within the radiation detector page as of November 2024. Click share is defined as the total number of clicks for all companies during the period divided by the number of clicks for each company.Number of Employees
Newly Established Company
Company with a History
*Including some distributors, etc.
*Including some distributors, etc.
Country | Number of Companies | Share (%) |
---|---|---|
United States of America | 7 | 50.0% |
Japan | 2 | 14.3% |
Italy | 1 | 7.1% |
Canada | 1 | 7.1% |
France | 1 | 7.1% |
Belgium | 1 | 7.1% |
United Kingdom | 1 | 7.1% |
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