Feasibility study of 3D gamma imaging for improving radiological protection at Sizewell B nuclear power plant.

The article focuses on a feasibility trial of gamma imaging technology for radiological monitoring at the Sizewell B nuclear power plant in the UK. Two gamma imaging systems—the N-Visage NV3 scanner and the Recon handheld unit—were tested to generate radiation heat maps and 3D radiometric models in areas with elevated dose rates, primarily from cobalt-60 (60Co). The study found that while gamma imaging cannot replace manual dose measurements, it provides valuable qualitative visualization of radiation fields, hotspot identification, and supports As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP) working practices. Dose planes overlaid on 3D models were highlighted as particularly useful for operational radiation protection and pre-job planning. Future work aims to optimize instrument sensitivity for 60Co, improve post-processing efficiency, and explore applications in outage management and shielding optimization.