(October 29, 2019) – CFD Research Corporation was recently awarded a $750k contract from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) to develop a novel radiation sensing system to detect proliferation of nuclear materials.
“Potential malicious use of radioactive nuclear materials via nuclear/radiological devices is a serious threat. Therefore, it is crucial to enable detection of such nuclear materials,” said Dr. Scott Miller, CFD Research Vice-President and Program Manager for the effort.
CFD Research is developing a solution for high sensitivity detection of signature emissions from radioactive isotopes using a cost-effective approach with deployment of sensor networks across large storage facilities, transportation containers, and vehicles. In this effort, CFD Research is collaborating with Arizona State University, the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, and Aquila.
In prior work, CFD Research and the team investigated the performance of different components of the sensor system via modeling and experiments, analyzed the impact of several design parameters, and developed design guidelines for improved performance. Component prototypes were built and proof-of-concept demonstrations of functionality were performed. In this follow-on work, the team will focus on continued development, optimization, and integration of the components leading to a full system prototype.
“Our goal here is to develop a distributable network of radiation sensors using a mix of modeling and fabrication/testing,” commented Ashok Raman, CFD Research Director and Principal Investigator for the project. “The sensor system is comprised of different component technologies and the design and testing tasks are quite complicated.”
About CFD Research:
Since its inception in 1987, CFD Research has worked with government agencies, businesses and academia to provide innovative solutions within the Aerospace & Defense, Biomedical & Life Sciences, and Energy & Materials industries. Over the years CFD Research has earned multiple national awards for successful application and commercialization of innovative component/system technology prototypes, multi-physics simulation software, multi-disciplinary analyses, and expert support services. CFD Research is an ISO9001 and AS9100 registered company and is appraised at CMMI Level II for services. Learn more at www.cfdrc.com.
