You are here

A Novel, Microscale, Distributable Sensor Technology for Ionizing Radiation

Award Information
Agency: Department of Defense
Branch: Defense Threat Reduction Agency
Contract: HDTRA1-15-P-0054
Agency Tracking Number: T14B-004-0012
Amount: $149,985.00
Phase: Phase I
Program: STTR
Solicitation Topic Code: DTRA14B-004
Solicitation Number: 2014.2
Timeline
Solicitation Year: 2014
Award Year: 2015
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): 2015-09-23
Award End Date (Contract End Date): 2016-04-28
Small Business Information
701 McMillian Way NW Suite D
Huntsville, AL 35806
United States
DUNS: 000000000
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: Yes
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 Ashok Raman
 (256) 726-4981
 proposals-contracts@cfdrc.com
Business Contact
 Deborah Phipps
Phone: (256) 726-4884
Email: dap@cfdrc.com
Research Institution
 Arizona State University
 Dr. Hugh Barnaby
 
650 E. Tyler Mall
Tempe, AZ 85281
United States

 (480) 727-0289
 Nonprofit College or University
Abstract

Terrorist use of radioactive nuclear materials via nuclear and/or radiological dispersion devices (dirty bombs) is a serious threat. Therefore, it is critical to detect the proliferation of nuclear material. Critical challenges facing this objective include: (a) high sensitivity detection of signature emissions (e.g., gamma rays) from common radioactive isotopes behind shielding, and (b) cost-effectiveness for deployment of sensor networks for efficient radiation detection across large storage facilities, transportation containers, and vehicles. CFD Research Corporation (CFDRC), in collaboration with Arizona State University (ASU) and a leading manufacturer of radiation dosimeters, propose to develop a low-cost, passive radiation sensing system consisting of: (i) a novel microscale sensor architecture, arrays of which can be widely dispersed, and (ii) a stand-off interrogator that probes the sensors and calculates absorbed dose. In Phase I, we will perform physics-based modeling of system components to derive design guidelines for improved performance. Unit structures will be built using micro fabrication techniques, and proof-of-concept devices demonstrated by detection of total dose. In Phase II, we will optimize component designs and investigate the performance of a distributed sensor array based on modeling, advanced signal processing, and fabrication/testing. Testing and evaluation of the improved sensor technology will be accomplished through validation cases selected in consultation with DTRA.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

US Flag An Official Website of the United States Government