Cyclone Collection system for Radionuclide Detection

The detection of radionuclide aerosols is a critical indicator of a nuclear detonation. Existing sensors as part of the International Monitoring System operate in a batch process and typically have a 48 to 72 hour delay between aerosol sample collection and measurement activities due to limits of instrument sensitivity. The continuous, instantaneous measurements of atmospheric aerosol radiation levels require the ability to sample and concentrate aerosols from much higher air volume flows than existing systems. We propose to develop a highly efficient cyclone concentrator system optimized for collection of submicron particles that provides a continuous flow of extremely concentrated aerosol for radionuclide detection. In Phase I, we will develop modeling tools and perform analyses to optimize the system configuration. In Phase II, we will build and test prototype concentrator systems to demonstrate particle separation performance and validate our design models.