Rapiscan Systems has introduced a lightweight, backpack-borne system for covert detection of radiological and nuclear materials.

The MP100 backpack radiation detection system features a long battery life system, plus Gamma and optional neutron radiation detection.

The MP100's PVT gamma radiation detectors detect gamma radiation emitted by medical and industrial isotopes, which can be used in a dirty bomb. They also detect special nuclear materials necessary for a nuclear weapon, the company said.

The MP100 meets U.S. and international standards for radiation detection, Rapiscan said, and integrates with Android mobile devices. It can be operated as a stand-alone monitor with alarms signaled audibly in the operator's earpiece or can connect wirelessly to a mobile Android device, such as a tablet, with the company's Rapiscan RadViewer application.

"Today's terrorists don't need special nuclear materials, such as uranium and plutonium, to create chaos. A small quantity of radioactive material that is routinely and safely employed in medical and industrial applications can cause significant radiation contamination to a wide area when part of a dirty bomb," said Pak Chin, president of Rapiscan Systems. "The MP100 applies Rapiscan design principles and technology to a practical, high performing, portable radiation detection solution that is suitable for a variety of use cases. It's one of the lightest and easiest to use systems available today."