Locating liquid and gas interfaces behind a steel hull: a neutron backscatter tool in action

Abstract

Monte Carlo simulations were performed to prove that a neutron backscatter tool can detect liquid (hydrocarbon or water) and gas levels behind steel casings, even when used under water. Consequently such a tool can be applied to the detection of fluid levels in wrecked vessels, which is important for environmentally safe retrieval of oil in these vessels. These simulations enable the efficient optimisation of the experimental conditions, without having to resort to expensive mock-ups.