Heightened security in airports has led to questionable body scans and uncomfortable pat downs that have caused quite a reaction from the public. While detecting potential threats is vital, the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) and the public cannot seem to agree on methods of detection.

But now, researchers from Wake Forest University and Fisk University have joined forces to create crystals that are capable of identifying chemical bombs, nuclear threats and radioactive material. These crystals could lead to the development of better screening devices in airports and border crossings. 

The crystals are made of strontium iodide, and are "doped" with europium. These crystals can identify and analyze radiation through role of parameters like electron and hole mobilities, and will act similar to CT scan or PET scan devices. 

One large problem in the way of developing these crystals to their full potential is cost, because a large amount of the crystalline material is needed for screening devices. But that has now been taken care of thanks to a $900,000 grant from the Department of Energy's Office of Nuclear Nonproliferation Research and Development of the National Nuclear Security Administration. The grant will support research associated with the crystals.

This grant is an acknowledgment of Fisk and Wake Forest's excellence and leadership in the field of radiation detection research," said Fisk University Professor of Physics and Vice Provost Arnold Burger.

It is unclear when the crystalline devices will be complete for airport use, but researchers believe that the crystals can be grown and produced affordably with the right adjustments. 

"Unexpected radiation situations are a fact of our modern world," said Dr. Richard Williams, Professor of Physics at Wake Forest University. "By improving radiation detection and diagnostics, our research will benefit medical advancement as well as international security."