Backscatter X-ray Devices Market - By Type (Handheld, Fixed), By Application (Customs & Border Protection, Law Enforcement, Airports, Military & Defense, Critical Infrastructure, Others), Forecast 2024 - 2032

Backscatter X-ray Devices Market Size

Backscatter X-Ray Devices Market size was valued at over USD 150 million in 2023 and is estimated to register a CAGR of over 5.5% between 2024 and 2032. Backscatter X-ray devices are security scanners that use low-energy X-rays to produce detailed images by reflecting radiation off surfaces, commonly used for non-invasive inspection of objects, luggage, or individuals.
 

The growing threats of drug trafficking have fueled the demand for these devices in security screening. As authorities seek to capture illicit drugs concealed in packages or luggage, the demand for advanced detection technologies grows. Backscatter X-ray devices provide detailed imaging capabilities, allowing for the efficient detection of concealed contraband. This trend encourages the use of such devices at border checkpoints, ports, and other transit hubs to combat the growing problem of drug trafficking.
 

For instance, in July 2021, Viken Detection released the FOXHOUND-HNA. Featuring tri-mode functionality and design, Viken’s handheld narcotics analyzer is optimized for drug interdiction and tailored for wide uses in law enforcement operations. FOXHOUND-HNA provides users with critical information enabling them to determine if narcotics are or have been present and identify those substances.
 

The increasing use of backscatter technology in cargo screening is a major contributor to the backscatter X-ray devices market growth. As global trade volumes increase, there is a greater need for efficient & effective cargo screening to prevent smuggling, trafficking, and terrorism. Backscatter X-ray devices can scan large cargo containers quickly and thoroughly, improving security and facilitating smoother logistics operations. This trend is driving the adoption of these devices in ports, border crossings, and freight terminals worldwide.
 

The backscatter X-ray devices market faces challenges due to limited detection capabilities. Despite their ability to reveal hidden objects, these devices may struggle to detect certain materials, such as plastic explosives or ceramics, resulting in potential security vulnerabilities. This limitation undermines trust in their efficacy, prompting organizations to seek alternative screening technologies with broader detection capabilities, thereby challenging market position.
 

Backscatter X-ray Devices Market Trends

Several factors are driving the backscatter market growth. Growing global security concerns, particularly in transportation hubs and critical infrastructure, are driving the demand for advanced screening solutions. Furthermore, the heightened volume of air travel requires increased airport security measures, boosting the use of backscatter X-ray devices. Backscatter X-ray technology continues to advance, improving detection capabilities and fueling market growth. For instance, in March 2023, Rapiscan Systems, a leading global supplier of security inspection systems, launched the 935DX, a new model within its growing line of ORION X-ray screening systems. The 935DX, among the largest tunneled conveyor systems on the market, is primarily designed for screening air cargo and pallets. All ORION Baggage & Parcel Inspection (BPI) solutions provide high image quality and reliability.
 

Stringent regulatory requirements in various industries mandate the use of robust security screening solutions, fostering market expansion. The demand for backscatter X-ray devices is also attributed to their expanding applications outside of airports such as customs, law enforcement, and event security. Governments around the world are increasing their investments in public safety infrastructure, encouraging the use of advanced security screening technologies such as backscatter X-ray devices. Finally, as economies become more interconnected and globalized, there is a greater need for effective security measures, further boosting the wide adoption of backscatter X-ray devices across regions and industries.
 

Backscatter X-ray Devices Market Analysis

Based on the application, the market is segmented into customs & border protection, law enforcement, airports, military & defense, critical infrastructure, and others. The customs and border protection segment accounted for a market share of over 20% in 2023.
 

• Customs & Border Protection (CBP) is experiencing an increase in the use of backscatter X-ray devices due to a variety of factors. The growing international trade necessitates strong security measures to prevent illegal smuggling activities. Backscatter X-ray devices offer CBP officers a non-intrusive way to inspect cargo and vehicles for contraband, explosives, and other prohibited items, thereby improving border security. Advancements in backscatter X-ray technology have improved detection capabilities, allowing CBP to identify hidden items more accurately. This improved capability helps build trust and reliance on backscatter X-ray devices for border screening operations.
   
• Regulatory requirements and international security standards require stringent cargo inspection protocols, driving CBP's use of advanced screening technologies such as backscatter X-ray devices. Overall, the growing need for effective border security measures, combined with technological advancements and regulatory mandates, is spurring the adoption of backscatter X-ray devices in customs & border protection operations.

Based on the type, the backscatter X-ray devices market is segmented into handheld and fixed. The handheld segment is estimated to register a significant growth rate of over 6% CAGR during the forecast period of 2024-2032.
 

• Handheld backscatter X-ray devices are gaining traction due to several factors. Security personnel can now carry and use handheld devices in a variety of settings, such as airports, border crossings, and event venues, owing to advancements in miniaturization and portability. The growing requirements for mobile security screening solutions to handle new threats and improve security measures on the go are also propelling the handheld backscatter X-ray device demand.
   
• The adaptability of handheld devices permits focused screenings of suspicious objects or persons, offering extra protection in circumstances where bigger, stationary scanners might not be feasible or accessible. As a result, handheld backscatter X-ray devices are becoming increasingly popular in the market, meeting the changing requirements of security experts and institutions worldwide with their efficacious, portable, and versatile design.

Asia Pacific held a significant share of over 30% in the backscatter X-ray devices market in 2023. These devices are becoming more common in Asia Pacific as a result of the rising infrastructure and security expenditures. The increasing international trade and rapid urbanization are fueling the need for tighter security at border crossings, seaports, and airports. Regional governments are investing in updating the security infrastructure including the implementation of cutting-edge screening methods such as backscatter X-ray machines. In Asia Pacific, the need for strong security solutions is further fueled by the threat of terrorism and illicit trafficking, thereby augmenting the product demand.
 

Backscatter X-ray Devices Market Share

Rapiscan Systems holds a significant share in the market. It is a leading provider of security screening solutions including backscatter X-ray devices. The company offers a wide range of products for aviation, ports, borders, military, and critical infrastructure security. With a global presence and advanced technology, Rapiscan Systems serves governments, airports, and organizations worldwide for effective threat detection and security screening.
 

Major players, such as Rapiscan Systems, Smiths Detection, Nuctech Company Limited, and Teledyne FLIR, are constantly implementing strategic measures, such as geographical expansion, acquisition, mergers, collaborations, partnerships, and product or service launches, to gain market share.
 

Backscatter X-ray Devices Market Companies

Major players operating in the backscatter X-ray devices indystry are:

• Autoclear LLC
• LAURUS Systems, Inc.
• Nuctech Company Limited
• Rapiscan Systems
• Scanna MSC Ltd.
• Smiths Detection
• Tek8, Inc.
• Teledyne Digital Imaging Inc.
• Teledyne FLIR
• Varex Imaging Corporation
• Viken Detection
   

Backscatter X-ray Devices Industry News

• In August 2023, Smiths Detection launched the SDX 100100 DV series, comprising two dual-view X-ray scanners. The SDX 100100 DV HC features a high conveyor and is specifically designed to meet the needs of airports, parcel services, carriers, customs facilities, and other high-security environments while the low conveyor model SDX 100100 DV LC supports screening oversized baggage and break-bulk freight reaching up to 100 x 100cm in size.
   
• In November 2022, Videray Technologies announced PX Ultra, the industry’s first 160 keV Handheld Backscatter X-ray Imager. With the PX Ultra, operators can see through even more material, with the ability to identify anomalies through up to 10 mm of steel. The PX Ultra offers even more safety features, with a factor of two reduction in its radiation scatter and leakage profiles.
   

The backscatter X-ray devices market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue (USD Billion) from 2018 to 2032, for the following segments:

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Market, By Type, 2018 - 2032

• Handheld
• Fixed

Market, By Application, 2018 – 2032

• Customs & border protection
• Law enforcement
• Airports
• Military & defense
• Critical infrastructure
• Others

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • ANZ
  • Rest of Asia Pacific 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America 
• MEA
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • Rest of MEA