TECHNOLOGY LICENSING OPPORTUNITY: KM200 – Configurable Amplifier for Radiation Detection Applications

The KM200 is specifically designed for nuclear safeguards, focusing on radiation detection for security, nonproliferation, and material accountability. The KM200 amplifiers have been tested and used for several years in deployed neutron detectors, replacing the discontinued Amptek A-111.

Overview:

Do you need the replacement technology for the discontinued Amptek A-111? The KM200 is a high-efficiency pre-amplifier that provides improved signal processing for radiation detection systems. It features a faster bipolar shaper and advanced discriminator circuitry, eliminating double pulsing and reducing noise while maintaining signal integrity at high count rates. Its optimized circuit design allows for precise pulse shaping, improving measurement resolution and neutron detection efficiency. The KM200 is also configurable for different detector types, enabling adjustments for varying signal conditions. These enhancements make it a reliable alternative to legacy amplifiers, ensuring stable and accurate performance in demanding radiation detection environments.

Key Advantages:

• High Count Rate Capabilities: Achieves a 10-fold improvement in count rate over existing systems, supporting high-throughput applications such as spent fuel measurement.
• Seamless System Integration: Built with widely available components and tested for compatibility as a drop-in replacement for legacy systems.
• Extended Application Range: Adaptable to various detector types, improving stability in diverse radiation detection environments and reducing high voltage drift effects.

Problems Solved:

• Enhanced Measurement Precision: Improves neutron detection sensitivity and accuracy, even in high-pressure or slow gas admixture environments.
• Compact and Versatile Design: Supports denser detector integration, reducing the number of tubes per amplifier while maintaining reliable performance in a smaller footprint.

Market Applications:

We are seeking licensing and partnership opportunities with radiation detection companies, instrumentation manufacturers, and detector system integrators to manufacture and deploy the KM200.

• Nuclear Safeguards and Security: Enhancing accuracy in neutron and gamma-ray detection for plutonium assays, fuel cycle analysis, and waste management.
• Medical Imaging: Augmenting PET and SPECT systems by amplifying low-level radiation signals.
• Radiation Monitoring: Improving compliance in radiation monitoring where Amptek A-111 was previously used.
• Research Labs: Supporting experiments in particle physics and nuclear research, ensuring sensitive and precise measurements.
• Security and Defense: Detecting radioactive materials for border security, emergency response, and critical infrastructure protection.
• Industrial Quality Control: Enabling non-destructive testing in manufacturing, critical for detecting minimal radiation levels.
• Space and Astronomy: Detecting cosmic rays and high-energy particles in space exploration and research.

Development Status: Technology Readiness Level 6

U.S. Patent No. 10,422,896  

Access: https://www.lanl.gov/engage/collaboration/feynman-center/tech-and-capability-search/km200

LANL Tech Partnerships: Unlock the Innovative Potential

Los Alamos National Laboratory offers a wide range of cutting-edge technologies and capabilities that may provide your company with a competitive edge in the market. We provide you with the opportunity to explore our portfolio and unlock the innovative potential that can enhance, refine, and revolutionize your products. Together, we can drive your success and help you achieve your goals.

Partner with us to explore the limitless potential of our technology and capability portfolio. Access our available technologies here to gain insights into the potential transformative tools and solutions we provide. For specific discussions, please contact licensing@lanl.gov.

LANL’s licensing program focuses on moving inventions developed by our researchers to commercial innovations to benefit society. Patented inventions and copyrighted software are available to existing and start-up companies through exclusive and non-exclusive licensing agreements. Note: This is not a call for external services for the development of this technology.

https://www.lanl.gov/engage/collaboration/feynman-center/partner-with-us/licensing-technology

https://www.lanl.gov/engage/collaboration/feynman-center/tech-and-capability-search