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Avo Photonics Develops Next Generation Radiation Detecting Instrument for LANDAUER

Updated: Dec 16, 2021

HORSHAM, PA, 07.01.2021 -- Following their successful first creation of Fluorescent Nuclear Track Detector (FNTD) reader instruments for LANDAUER, Avo Photonics is pleased to announce the development of the second generation instrument featuring improved image quality, faster scanning, and more rugged packaging.


A breakthrough in tools for radiation protection, medical dosimetry, and radiobiology research was achieved in 2005 by LANDAUER with the innovation of FNTD. These wearable badges enable measuring neutron and other particle exposure through imaging of fluorescent tracks induced by radiation in aluminum oxide crystals. Neutrons interact with different converter materials on the top surface of the crystal and thereby produce recoil protons or alpha particles that in turn generate discernible tracks in the volume of the crystal. The FNTD reader instrument consists of an finely tuned and robust optical system based on an automated confocal microscope that images and processes radiation induced tracks and eventually calculates the neutron dose.


With a 30X faster readout, larger detector areas can be scanned with improved counting statistics without sacrificing image quality. This is achieved through a unique line-scanning method, high power laser, and proprietary image and data processing. Moreover, with no moving elements in the optical path the instrument is optically stable and rugged. “It’s exciting to support LANDAUER’s product realization. Their deep history in radiation detection and continuous generation of exciting and better quality tools is impressive,” said Avo’s Optical Program Manager, Dr. Lukasz Maksymiuk. According to Dr. Mark Akselrod, LANDAUER’s Chief Scientist, “Avo’s deep science knowledge and engineering development skills as well as scalable, US-based manufacturing make them a perfect fit for our needs”.


About LANDAUER

LANDAUER helps organizations achieve their radiation safety goals through innovation. They explore ideas, embrace technology and continually identify new opportunities to provide timely solutions for their clients. Since 1954, Landauer has been a leader in Radiation Science and Services. Their goal is to help develop best practices in risk mitigation and guide the development of occupational and public health and safety regulations. To learn more, visit www.landauer.com.


About Avo Photonics

Avo Photonics accelerates your ability to efficiently develop and sell photonic products. By enabling rapid time-to-market, maintaining strict confidentiality, and providing one-stop shopping from design through volume manufacturing, we make our customers successful, profitable, and reputable. Headquartered near Philadelphia, Avo was founded and is still guided by Laser Physicists and Engineers who blend critical, photonics-based disciplines into a single source for the conceptualizing, design, testing and volume manufacturing of precision, rugged, opto-electronic components and systems.

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