Multiparametric approach to the assessment of muon tomographic results for the inspection of a full-scale container

Abstract

Experimental results from a dataset collected with a full-scale muon tomograph for the inspection of cargo containers were studied in a single scattering scenario with a multiparametric analysis based on the method of the Point Of Closest Approach (Poca). To search for high-Z materials, a 4 $$\hbox {dm}^3$$ dm 3 Pb block was positioned inside the volume to be inspected, in order to quantitatively investigate the appearance of the Poca signal. Signal-to-noise ratio and significance of the Poca signal were investigated by means of mono-dimensional spectra of the Poca components, for different values of the scattering angle between the incoming and outgoing muon tracks and with different angle-dependent weights. A systematic scan of two-dimensional maps was also carried out, as a strategy to search for possible enhancements to the Poca signal. A comparison was also done between the results obtained from the two half-volumes, one containing the Pb block and one left empty, to take into account the response of the detector and some aspects of the Poca strategy.

Towards a full and realistic simulation framework for the Extreme Energy Events experiment

“…These variations are not always trivial but must be taken into account to minimize the systematic error data analysis. Such a significant sensitivity is an interesting feature that demonstrates how muons can be used to perform a scan of surrounding materials (muon tomography) [14]. Further investigations are in progress.…”

The cosmic muon and detector simulation framework of the extreme energy events (EEE) experiment

“…Middle, ratio between the two rate distributions. Bottom, the two simulated geometries [23,24]. Further investigations are in progress and results will be present in a dedicated paper.…”