Wireless and Robust Radioactivity Detector for Environmental Monitoring

Within consolidating scenarios of wireless sensors networks and Internet-of-things for pervasive urban and environmental monitoring, we present a compact gamma-ray spectrometer based on 4 SiPMs coupled to a 2" NaI scintillator. This microcontroller-based system represents the evolution of an initial prototype to be embedded in lifting electromagnets to screen scrap metal for radioactive sources and, thus, tolerant to large magnetic fields. With the addition of wireless communication, plastic and rugged metallic cases, auxiliary inertial and magnetic sensors, and improved light collection, it offers 11% energy resolution at 662 keV, suitable for the majority of environmental safety applications, and a convenient 2" form factor. Operation on board of a drone is also demonstrated.