Proportional Technologies, Inc. (PTI) is a leading innovator of reliable, high-performing radiation-related technologies for the homeland security, defense, and clinical research communities. As a pioneer and developer of a cutting-edge, breakthrough Boron-straw neutron detector technology, PTI strives to produce practical detection technologies to meet the demands of today's changing defense and domestic homeland security communities. We continue to support our nation's security efforts by providing relevant research and product solutions at competitive pricing for our customers.

Homeland Security

In Homeland Security, our DOE, DHS, and DoD-funded breakthrough small-diameter, boron-lined straw technology routinely outperforms Helium-3 in independent testing at fractions of the cost. As Helium-3 dependent neutron detector technologies become increasingly obsolete, Boron-straw technology can effectively be integrated to replace these technologies in both large-scale deployments where high sensitivity and low-cost are required, and in portable applications, where low-weight and robust operation are critical. Boron-coated straws are excellent alternatives to Helium-3 in traditional detection applications such as portal monitoring, long-range detection, safeguards coincidence counting, and a variety of portable devices.

A neutron detector module for portal monitors was recently tested by PNNL staff at the laboratory's facilities in Richland, WA. This PNNL group is regarded as the authority on portal monitor comparative testing. Results showed that the module's performance significantly exceeded the US government requirement for portal monitors, and even performed better than the highest sensitivity 2-tube 3He-based design. Until PTI achieved this landmark measurement such sensitivity was considered out of reach for replacement technologies. A PNNL report titled Boron-lined straw tube neutron detector test (PNNL-19600) provides detailed results of this comprehensive evaluation.

We aim to revolutionize Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging with the introduction of a 62Cu generator that, once delivered to the clinic, can instantly synthesize 62Cu agents and produce many doses in a single day. The distribution process is thus much less expensive than that of 18F agents, which require hundreds of cyclotrons and pharmacies spread across the country to produce the isotope every day and synthesize the agent through a complex organic process.

PTI is additionally developing innovative PET scanners with advantages over crystal-based systems, including no depth-of-interaction (DOI) errors, no need for bulky photomultiplier tubes, higher and more uniform sensitivity and position resolution, simple fabrication, and low cost. These significant advantages are made possible with the introduction of a unique detector technology for PET (U.S. Patent 6,483,114), based on long plastic straws (up to 50 cm) of small diameter (2 or 4 mm), that incorporate lead (Pb) inside their wall. 

- 62Zn/62Cu microgenerator
- 62Cu-BTS kits
- 64Cu-BTS kits
- Dedicated PET camera for breast imaging
- Small animal PET scanner




 

In the materials science field PTI has developed a large area, high rate neutron imaging detector aimed at meeting the demanding needs of the Spallation Neutron Source at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Meter-long boron-coated straw (BCS) detectors are grouped together in modules to form a large-area panel that offers excellent spatial resolution and gamma ray rejection rivaling that of pressurized 3He detectors. 

- Neutron imaging panel