Innovative American Technology Inc. (IAT) was formed in 2002 to develop next generation chemical, biological, radiation, nuclear and explosives (CBRNE) sensor systems utilizing a digital platform for a distributed sensor network. IAT has developed novel 6LiF/ZnS(Ag) neutron detectors, is evaluating quantum dot technologies including a new photon capture technology for our 6LiF/ZnS(Ag) neutron detector module. We continue to develop advanced radiation detection systems including source location, backpack radiation detection systems and handheld neutron detector modules. The company is developing solar energy systems based on quantum dot technology and chemical and biological sensor systems for emerging pathogens and homeland security applications.

IAT has addressed a critical national issue of developing and commercializing a cost effective replacement for helium-3 neutron detectors to address radiation portal monitors, human portable and mobile neutron detector needs. IAT has accomplished this through a multilevel approach addressing the detector design, high speed digital signal processing, advanced algorithms, and material sciences that have produced high levels of neutron efficiency while reducing gamma interference and novel production methods reducing the cost of critical components within the neutron detector module.

IAT has focused on development of high performance neutron detector modules with reduced cost of production. The material sciences applied to 6LiF/ZnS(Ag) as a neutron detector scintillating mat increased the performance by reducing the material needed, lowering cost of production for the neutron detector module. IAT’s development and production methods for high performance wavelength shifting fibers enable a larger area neutron detector and significant reductions in production costs.

These efforts produce high-tech jobs in the United States for research, development and manufacturing. IAT is committed to “Made in America” products which solve important issues of our day. IAT supports economic development in the US providing important roles in research opportunities for local universities. IAT works with State and local officials for solutions to challenging CBRNE issues from natural disasters or terrorist threats. The company provides advanced mobile radiation verification systems to local hazmat teams under cooperative study programs. IAT offers student interaction sessions to provide real-life challenges for future entrepreneurs and continues to look for opportunities where it can make a difference.

The company has commercialized the 6LiF/ZnS(Ag) neutron detector products and established a volume manufacturing facility providing much needed high-tech jobs in Florida. IAT is delivering neutron detector modules to major systems integrators for deployment within the US and to international projects. The company is poised to expand manufacturing jobs for radiation detection systems and continued research and development in this field.

IAT development under the SBIR program has performed within budget and consistently delivered the desired results. The targeted deliverable of a cost effective high performance neutron detector module for replacement of single or two tube helium-3 neutron detector modules in a radiation portal monitor has been accomplished.

The company continues to leverage the technical advances developed under the SBIR program to address neutron detector modules for backpacks, mobile platforms and is now working on a low power 6LiF/ZnS(Ag) neutron detector for handheld detectors.