omega-p r&d, Inc. — Department of Energy SBIR Phase I: C56-02a

Description

The US Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation Research and Development agency has an objective to reduce reliance on high-activity commercial and industrial radioactive sources used in calibration systems. One approach to achieve this goal is by use of novel electron accelerators to produce x-rays that can reach the needed gamma-ray dose rate, repeatability, and stability for calibration, while reducing operation cost and posing no security risks.Scientists from Omega-P R&D, Inc. have identified a key alternative technology using a novel highly-compact electron accelerator that appears able to operate with high efficiency and robustness to replace radioisotopic sources. In this project, that concept will be consolidated and validated at Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL), and evolve into a practical design for portable calibration system.During Phase I of this project, Omega-P R&D, Inc will use simulation design codes and other engineering tools to evolve a practical version of its new accelerator with X-ray generation capability, which will be compatible for installation and testing with the eCRA Demonstration test stand that BNL is establishing currently. The tests are to validate the production and manipulation of an electron beam with relevant parameters for producing x-rays having an energy spectrum suitable for replacing radioisotopic sources such as Category 2 Cs-137.Millions of radiation detectors calibrated annually with Cs-137 are being used in the United States and globally, including nuclear power plants, cargo ports, hospitals and cancer treatment facilities, research facilities, industrial facilities, government agencies, and wherever there is release or suspected release of radiation. Replacement of a fraction of present use of Cs-137 and other radioisotopes with an accelerator-based system represents a potential lucrative business that could emerge from the R&D proposed here. Benefits to National security should also accrue from removal of radioisotopic materials that could pose a terrorist threat.