X-ray backscatter imaging: a new deployable form factor for defence and security applications

X-ray backscatter (XRBS) is an established technique to conduct through-barrier, non-invasive imaging. Defence Science Technology Laboratory (Dstl) has demonstrated and characterised a novel portable XRBS system tailored for Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), but with broader application across both military and civil contexts. Rapiscan AS&E designed and produced two prototype systems under the direction and funding of US and UK governments. The Portable Backscatter X-ray (PBX2) system is a novel application of the XRBS technique for threat detection, under an innovative form factor which is not currently seen in the commercial market. Dstl has carried out a series of trials covering characterisation of the x-ray performance and identification of potential capability in several threat detection scenarios.