Smart High-radiation Imaging Enabled by Layered Defence (SHIELD)

Background and context

The SHIELD project addressed a critical challenge in the nuclear sector: the dependence on legacy cathode ray tube (CRT) camera systems for monitoring in high-radiation environments. These systems, although radiation-tolerant, are now becoming obsolete, difficult to source, and increasingly expensive to maintain, posing risks to operational continuity.

CMOS cameras – now the modern standard – offer significant advantages, including high-resolution colour imaging and compatibility with AI-driven analysis, but are highly susceptible to radiation damage, limiting their deployment.

About the Project

This project introduced a novel materials-led solution by developing a multilayer shielding system combining lead and hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) coatings. This approach protects against radiation while enabling the use of advanced CMOS imaging technologies. A key innovation was the in-situ validation of performance under realistic radiation conditions, bridging the gap between laboratory research and real-world application.

The project involved collaboration between the University of Manchester, Custom Cameras Ltd, the Henry Royce Institute, and the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC). Royce support provided access to critical infrastructure, including irradiation facilities, mechanical testing, and surface analysis, alongside funding and expert technical support

Project Details and Results

The project combined materials development, characterisation, and in-situ testing. Sprayable hBN inks were formulated and applied to multiple substrates, including CMOS sensors, enabling scalable multilayer shielding architectures. Mechanical testing demonstrated strong adhesion on polymer substrates, while chemical analysis confirmed the radiation stability of hBN and its ability to protect underlying materials.

Six irradiation campaigns (five gamma and one neutron) were carried out at dose rates of 800–6500 Gy h⁻¹, with real-time monitoring of imaging performance. This addressed the core problem of CMOS sensor degradation in radiation environments.

Key outcomes included a 2.5× increase in CMOS sensor lifetime through the combined shielding approach, alongside the development of a reproducible testing framework and scalable coating process. The project also confirmed the protective functionality of hBN coatings and advanced the technology readiness level from TRL 1 to TRL 4, demonstrating clear progression toward application.

Impact & Next Steps

Royce support played a crucial role in de-risking early-stage innovation and enabling rapid development. Access to advanced facilities and expertise allowed the project to progress from concept to validated prototype within approximately five months. This accelerated innovation cycle strengthened collaboration between academic and industrial partners and ensured robust experimental outcomes.

The project delivers significant impact by enabling safer and more efficient monitoring in nuclear environments, reducing reliance on obsolete systems and limiting human exposure to hazardous conditions. It also supports cost reduction, improved reliability, and the adoption of AI-driven inspection and predictive maintenance. Beyond nuclear applications, the technology has potential in sectors such as space, defence, and medical imaging where radiation resilience is essential.

Future work will focus on improving coating adhesion, conducting higher-flux neutron testing, and advancing towards commercial deployment with industry partners. A patent application is in preparation, and ongoing collaboration aims to secure further funding. The outputs provide a strong platform for accelerating materials innovation and developing next-generation radiation-hardened electronic systems.