On-Site Radiation Measurements

Sophisticated radiation metrology equipment can be transported to remote locations for on-site state-of-the-art measurements and analysis. Tools include the ROSPEC™ high-resolution neutron spectrometer; hyper-sensitive thermoluminescent dosimeters and neutron dosimeters; the Microspec™ suite of hand-carried equipment capable of gamma-ray, X-ray, beta or neutron spectroscopy; the Liquid Scintillation Counting System; and a Photographic Airborne Radiation Spectroscopic System that provides real-time data transfer from airborne platforms to remote ground stations.

Radiation Detection Equipment Calibration

The Van de Graaff accelerator can be used to calibrate radiation detection equipment – applicable for neutron detector calibration at low doses and dose rates at energies from 20 keV to 16 MeV. The facility includes various calibrated radioisotopic gamma ray sources (such as 60Co, 137Cs, 203Hg) ranging in activity from microCi to 500Ci; radioisotopic neutron sources (252Cf and PuBe); as well as beta and alpha point and area sources. All calibration is documented with run-time dosimetry and/or spectroscopy.

Suite of Radiation Sources

This unique suite of radiation sources includes gamma-ray (capable of giving exposure rates from sub-background to nuclear weapons levels); X-ray, neutron, alpha and beta; and the Van de Graaff Linear Accelerator and 252Cf neutron source (the largest in Canada for activation techniques). The calibrated gamma-ray/X-ray suite is unique in Canada in its range of energy and dose rates.

Van de Graaff Linear Accelerator

This 3 MeV Van de Graaff accelerator can produce monoenergetic neutron and calibrated proton and deuteron beams. The accelerator is a high-voltage engineering machine (circa 1950s) operating at voltages from 1 to roughly 2.8 MeV. It produces beam currents (p and d) of approximately 10 microAmps. More information

Nuclear Battlefield Electronics Testing

This facility can provide total dose on-site testing using 5000 Ci 60Co source (delivering over 6000 Rad/h @ 1m) or dose-rate testing performed at a local LINAC or the U.S. Army White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) flash X-ray facility. Neutron testing may also be performed at WSMR. Near real-time dosimetry is provided for all testing. The JD Instruments digital and analog analysis suite may be used for testing the performance of modern electronics.

Mobile Nuclear Laboratory

This self-contained, self-powered laboratory can be transferred to remote locations to perform state-of-the-art measurements and on-site analysis of radiation. The laboratory incorporates the unique expertise of DRDC Ottawa’s Radiological Analysis and Defence group and a comprehensive suite of technologies. It is the most complete facility in Canada for on-site measurements.

T-100 Compound for Radiation Simulation and Testing

DRDC Ottawa’s unique 16-acre compound is licensed for the movement of and experiments with radioactive sources. This compound has been used to perform diverse tasks, including the development of large simulators to determine infinite plane and surface-contamination radiation protection factors of Canadian Forces (CF) combat vehicles; the development of challenge fields to verify the efficacy of DRDC Ottawa’s Airborne Radiation Spectroscopy System and for field trials of the CF Nuclear, Biological and Chemical response teams; and the development of simulation and test facilities to assess radiation risk to CF from the cutting of radioactive weapon-sights overseas. The large physical area, combined with numerous available sources and types of detection equipment, offers many possibilities.

Virtual Expertise Nuclear

Multiple probe spectroscopic systems capable of data transmission over extended (i.e. global) ranges allow moderately trained personnel in-theatre to communicate spectral, voice and video data to DRDC experts in near real-time. Data can then be analyzed for anomalies and specific field instructions can be provided.

Space Radiation Testing

The Van de Graaff accelerator offers a 5000 Ci 60Co source for ionization testing of low-energy protons. A 252Cf fission-foil chamber can simulate heavy ion-induced cosmic ray upset effects. Arrangements can be made to test for high-energy protons at the University of British Columbia Tri-University Meson Facility and for high-energy heavy ions at the U.S. Michigan State University Cyclotron.

Business Inquiries