Cascade Particle Detector

The DOE Atmospheric Science Program is seeking to support the development of novel techniques for determining the size distribution of ambient aerosols. In particular, due to inherent problems associated with optical measurements of aerosol particles in the 0.5 ¿ 10 micrometer range, a non-optics based solution is sought. To address this need, this project will develop a new cascade particle detection technology. The approach will combine (1) an aerosol particle separation mechanism inside a cascade impactor and (2) a single-particle capacitive detection instrument that uses a microcapacitor array fabricated inside a silicon microchannel plate. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee In addition to aerosol characterization for environmental sensing applications, the Cascade Particle Detector technology should be applicable to the healthcare industry for pharmaceutical inhaler testing