Compact cosmic ray muon scattering imaging system based on plastic scintillating fibers

Abstract Muon scattering imaging is a non-destructive method that utilizes cosmic ray muons to image materials with different atomic numbers. In recent decades, multiple international research institutions have developed various detection systems and reconstruction algorithms for applications in nuclear reactor core monitoring, nuclear material imaging, border security screening, and nuclear non-proliferation. However, the methods for assessing the material discrimination capability of the corresponding system are not very intuitive. In this study, the design and construction of a cosmic ray muon imaging system based on plastic scintillating fibers are described. The system's material discrimination capability assessment method was designed based on theoretical calculations and physical analysis. Based on the detector position and angular resolution, joint simulation and experimental data analysis were conducted to evaluate the material discrimination and imaging capabilities of the cosmic ray muon system.