TECHNOLOGY LICENSING OPPORTUNITY: KM200 – Configurable Amplifier for Radiation Detection Applications

Project ID: S-133140 FederalOpportunitiesSpecial Notice
Overview
AgencyDepartment of Energy
Deadline07/15/26
Posted05/15/26
Estimated Value$10,000,000 (value based on agency estimated range)
Set AsideNone
NAICS334513 - Instruments and Related Products Manufacturing for Measuring, Displaying, and Controlling Industrial Process Variables
PSC6665 - Hazard-Detecting Instruments And Apparatus
LocationLos Alamos, NM 87545 United States
Description
Primary Latest Change

Summary

The KM200 is specifically designed for nuclear safeguards, focusing on radiation detection for security, nonproliferation, and material accountability. The KM200 amplifiers have been tested and used for several years in deployed neutron detectors, replacing the discontinued Amptek A-111. Overview: Do you need the replacement technology for the discontinued Amptek A-111? The KM200 is a high-efficiency pre-amplifier that provides improved signal processing for radiation detection systems. It features a faster bipolar shaper and advanced discriminator circuitry, eliminating double pulsing and reducing noise while maintaining signal integrity at high count rates. Its optimized circuit design allows for precise pulse shaping, improving measurement resolution and neutron detection efficiency. The KM200 is also configurable for different detector types, enabling adjustments for varying signal conditions. These enhancements make it a reliable alternative to legacy amplifiers, ensuring stable and accurate performance in demanding radiation detection environments.

High Count Rate Capabilities

Achieves a 10-fold improvement in count rate over existing systems, supporting high-throughput applications such as spent fuel measurement.

Seamless System Integration

Built with widely available components and tested for compatibility as a drop-in replacement for legacy systems.

Extended Application Range

Adaptable to various detector types, improving stability in diverse radiation detection environments and reducing high voltage drift effects.

Enhanced Measurement Precision

Improves neutron detection sensitivity and accuracy, even in high-pressure or slow gas admixture environments.

Compact and Versatile Design

Supports denser detector integration, reducing the number of tubes per amplifier while maintaining reliable performance in a smaller footprint.

Market Applications

We are seeking licensing and partnership opportunities with radiation detection companies, instrumentation manufacturers, and detector system integrators to manufacture and deploy the KM200.

Nuclear Safeguards and Security

Enhancing accuracy in neutron and gamma-ray detection for plutonium assays, fuel cycle analysis, and waste management.

Medical Imaging

Augmenting PET and SPECT systems by amplifying low-level radiation signals.

Radiation Monitoring

Improving compliance in radiation monitoring where Amptek A-111 was previously used.

Research Labs

Supporting experiments in particle physics and nuclear research, ensuring sensitive and precise measurements.

Security and Defense

Detecting radioactive materials for border security, emergency response, and critical infrastructure protection.

Industrial Quality Control

Enabling non-destructive testing in manufacturing, critical for detecting minimal radiation levels.

Space and Astronomy

Detecting cosmic rays and high-energy particles in space exploration and research.

Development Status

Technology Readiness Level 6 U.S. Patent No. 10,422,896 Access: https://www.lanl.gov/engage/collaboration/feynman-center/tech-and-capability-search/km200

LANL Tech Partnerships

Unlock the Innovative Potential Los Alamos National Laboratory offers a wide range of cutting-edge technologies and capabilities that may provide your company with a competitive edge in the market. We provide you with the opportunity to explore our portfolio and unlock the innovative potential that can enhance, refine, and revolutionize your products. Together, we can drive your success and help you achieve your goals. Partner with us to explore the limitless potential of our technology and capability portfolio. Access our available technologies here to gain insights into the potential transformative tools and solutions we provide. For specific discussions, please contact licensing@lanl.gov. LANL's licensing program focuses on moving inventions developed by our researchers to commercial innovations to benefit society. Patented inventions and copyrighted software are available to existing and start-up companies through exclusive and non-exclusive licensing agreements. Note: This is not a call for external services for the development of this technology. https://www.lanl.gov/engage/collaboration/feynman-center/partner-with-us/licensing-technology https://www.lanl.gov/engage/collaboration/feynman-center/tech-and-capability-search

Summary (Newest Update)

Background The KM200 is a high-efficiency pre-amplifier specifically designed for nuclear safeguards, focusing on radiation detection for security, nonproliferation, and material accountability. Developed by the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), this technology aims to replace the discontinued Amptek A-111 and enhance the performance of radiation detection systems. Work Details The KM200 amplifier features advanced signal processing capabilities, including a faster bipolar shaper and advanced discriminator circuitry that eliminates double pulsing and reduces noise while maintaining signal integrity at high count rates. Key specifications include: - High Count Rate Capabilities: Achieves a 10-fold improvement in count rate over existing systems, supporting high-throughput applications such as spent fuel measurement. - Seamless System Integration: Built with widely available components and tested for compatibility as a drop-in replacement for legacy systems. - Extended Application Range: Configurable for various detector types, improving stability in diverse radiation detection environments and reducing high voltage drift effects. - Enhanced Measurement Precision: Improves neutron detection sensitivity and accuracy, even in challenging environments. - Compact Design: Supports denser detector integration while maintaining reliable performance in a smaller footprint. Place of Performance The KM200 is intended for use in various applications including nuclear safeguards, medical imaging, radiation monitoring, research labs, security and defense operations, industrial quality control, and space exploration.

Contacts
Contact nameKathleen McDonald
Contact emaillicensing@lanl.gov
Contact phoneNone
Secondary contact nameLindsay Augustyn
Secondary contact emaillicensing@lanl.gov
Secondary contact phoneNone
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