MuonX
Imaging with Muons
Muon X is an innovative start-up founded in 2022 from the collaboration between the Federico II University of Naples, Tecno In S.p.a and Stress Scarl consortium.
OUR TECHNOLOGY
We use the muons from the cosmic rays to discover and make an image of the underground.
By detecting cosmic muons, we are able to determine the subsurface density distribution and thus detect and quantify the anomalies.
OUR OFFERS
- Feasibility studies
- Field measurements
- Design and implementation of detectors
- Supply of detectors
- Training
APPLICATION FIELD
- Archaeology
- Cavity detection
- Geological prospection
- Study of industrial structures
- Nuclear safety and safeguarding
Our Partner
The Muon Radiography, Muography
It is an innovative imaging technique capable of investigating the subsurface or interior of large opaque bodies inaccessible by traditional techniques such as X-rays or gamma rays.
What we do
We use the innovative Muon Radiography technology in the geological prospection, as alternative or complementary to traditional methods. We combined years of study and research in the field of high energy physics, mostly focused on muons and cosmic rays undertaken by the university group, with the multi-year experience in the field of geology, geotechnics and engineering brought in by the industrial partner Tecno In s.p.a. and the Scarl stress consortium.
OUR TECHNOLOGY
We use the muons from the cosmic rays to discover and make an image of the underground. By detecting cosmic muons, we are able to determine the subsurface density distribution and thus detect and quantify the anomalies. Though the study of the latter, it is possible to identify the presence of cavities, aquifers and mineral deposits: Moreover, it can be used to study buildings and structures overground, both natural and artificial, like industrial and civil structure, as well as mountains and volcanos. Repeated measurements at different locations, made either with the same detector or a network of the latter, allow us to obtain a 3D information and locate the presence of different elements more accurately.
Our detectors are capable of operating in hostile environments, thanks to the reduced dimensions, the impermeability and the low power consumption. Furthermore, they are easily transported, robust and easy to install. Especially our cylindrical detector can be deployed in wells, thus allowing subsurface analysis in the absence of pre-existing cavities.
OUR TECHNOLOGY
We use the muons from the cosmic rays to discover and make an image of the underground. By detecting cosmic muons, we are able to determine the subsurface density distribution and thus detect and quantify the anomalies.
Though the study of the latter, it is possible to identify the presence of cavities, aquifers and mineral deposits: Moreover, it can be used to study buildings and structures overground, both natural and artificial, like industrial and civil structure, as well as mountains and volcanos. Repeated measurements at different locations, made either with the same detector or a network of the latter, allow us to obtain a 3D information and locate the presence of different elements more accurately.
Our detectors are capable of operating in hostile environments, thanks to the reduced dimensions, the impermeability and the low power consumption. Furthermore, they are easily transported, robust and easy to install. Especially our cylindrical detector can be deployed in wells, thus allowing subsurface analysis in the absence of pre-existing cavities.
Our Services
What We Do
Feasibility Studies
Field Measurements
Detector Supplies and Training
Using just few environmental details, such as for example mean density and depth, we are able to develop a quite accurate simulation model to approach the problem. This results in give both to us and the client an estimation of expected results, costs and timing, and more importantly, the optimization of the apparatus needed on the field.
We can guarantee a complete service, from the preliminary feasibility study, to the implementation of the necessary infrastructure (communication networks, drilling, detector installation, data transfer and visualization). After positioning the detectors, we remotely monitor the development of the system over time, move the detectors when necessary to enhance the measurements, and finally provide the customer with a comprehensive report with the results obtained
Our detectors are projected and assembled in our laboratories, thus they can be custom made and adapted on the necessities of our clients. Moreover, we provide the training on the use of the detectors and the interface developed specifically for our detectors.
Application fields
Cavity Detection
This is the primary aim of the works undertaken as a group. By placing our detectors in pre-existing tunnels or using purpose-built wells, we can identify cavities with very high accuracy both in space and dimension, and monitor their progress over time. Compared to traditional techniques, we can also operate where these are inapplicable, ineffective or very expensive. Our study on the hidden chamber in Mt. Echia (Naples) was featured as a scientific review in Nature.
Geological Prospection
Muography provides maps of subsoil density. Through the map generated, it is possible to identify and quantify the anomalies and thus indicate the presence of mineral deposits, aquifers, large boulders, measure the thickness of a glacier, and so on. Moreover, using long exposure time, it is possible to monitor the trend and the variation of such subsoil structure over time.
Study of Industrial Structures
Overlying structure, suc as industrial and civil buildings, can also be monitored using muography. As an example, the density distribution inside a blast furnace can be measured and its evolution can be followed over time.
Safety
Using a network of detector, it is possible to identify and locate tunnels and structure underground. Given their low operating cost and network connectivity, continuous monitoring is possible to check possible intrusions in restricted areas and therefore used as safety system in union with other monitoring techniques.
Archaeology
One of the first applications was the study of secret chambers inside the great pyramids of Giza, which led in 2017 to the discovery of a “great void” inside the pyramid of Cheops. Muography can be a very useful tool in archaeology, both for the study of emerged buildings, such as castles or pyramids, and for underground structures.
Nuclear safeguarding
The use of muon radiography in nuclear safeguards is becoming more widespread as the technology is proving highly sensitive to the presence of nuclear material. Therefore, it is used to characterize radioactive waste containers and to check for the presence of nuclear fuel inside storage silos or nuclear power plants.