Ruggedized Radionuclide Particle Collection System

The detection of radionuclide aerosols is a critical indicator of a nuclear detonation. Current detection systems used in the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty’s  (CTBT) global monitoring network stations spend 24 hours collecting and concentrating particulates from the air to gather enough sample material for adequate detection sensitivity. This approach is inherently a batch process that yields a data point only once per day. Future detection systems will require the ability to reduce the monitoring time and increase the sensitivity of airborne radionuclide particles to enable faster response. To achieve this capability, an efficient aerosol concentrator that can sample much larger air volumes and package the sample more efficiently than existing systems is required. In the currently proposed effort, we will ruggedize our highly efficient particle collection system, include automized operation, and  conduct outdoor testing. We will work with our sister company that specializes in small-scale, high-value manufacturing to begin to transition this technology from research and development to pilot production.