DAF26BZ02-DV013 — Modernization of Flash X-Ray Simulated Environments
Award Maximum: $2,000,000 Period of Performance: 24 months Phase Type: Direct-to-Phase-II (D2P2)
OBJECTIVE: The program goal under the offered D2P2 topic is to design and build two new flash x-ray test capabilities. To reduce cost, both would be built on non-functioning capability platforms (CXS and PI 538 flash x-ray) with completely new output profiles. The CXS would be redesigned as a cold x-ray source. The PI 538 would be redesigned to reduce the Full-Width-Half-Max (FWMH) pulse width. For both machines, perform an evaluation of components that could be replaced using different materials for targets, switches, or resistors, etc. This could increase operational time between maintenance cycles, allowing for higher annual operating capacity. Both proposed capabilities represent unique output profiles of high value to nuclear modernization test and evaluation work across the DoW.
DESCRIPTION: The CXS small flash x-ray and the PI 538 flash x-ray machines are both currently available for repurposing. Both machines will require removal to an offsite location for assessment. While assessment methodology may include rebuilding and operating to establish a baseline, the intent is not simply to return the machines to operation in their original form. Modification to the output and operational throughput (e.g., number of operations per day and reduced maintenance periods) of both machines will require research and development.
Technical capability for modification of the CXS into a cold/warm x-ray source exists at a TRL of 6. Performers should be at TRL 8 with this technology upon completion of Phase II. The technology for shortening of the PI 538 pulse width is also considered TRL 6 and should be TRL 8 upon completion of Phase II. The TRL for PI 538 modification portion of the effort to reduce maintenance downtime and make its use in combined environments more readily available, is a moving target as state-of-the-art materials and methodologies continue to evolve.
PHASE I: As this is a Direct-to-Phase-II (D2P2) topic, no Phase I awards will be made as a result of this topic. To qualify for this D2P2 topic, the Air Force expects the applicant(s) to demonstrate feasibility by means of a prior "Phase I-type" effort that does not constitute work undertaken as part of a prior or ongoing SBIR/STTR funding agreement. Applicant(s) should provide documentation demonstrating a clear understanding of x-ray machine design including blumlein design, factors affecting pulse width, energy outputs, state-of-the-art materials for X-ray sources, and modeling and simulation of x-ray source technology.
PHASE II: To perform phase II, the CXS and PI 538 flash x-ray machine will first be transported offsite for assessment. Note that transfer of the PI 538 will require special provisions to remove and transport the dielectric oil without affecting its insulating properties. Following initial assessment, components of both machines will be evaluated for replacement with higher performance materials such as resins or composites less susceptible to dendrite formation or changes to the target material and form. Modeling & Simulation to determine the best method to meet the technical objective of adjusting CXS energy output.
PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Upon final assembly and demonstration operations, the mobile CXS and PI 538 will be used for component and subsystem testing as a standalone pulse gamma simulation irradiator and in concert with other radiation test capabilities for exposure to combined environments (specific programs supported TBD in coordination with DoW Test Resource Management Center (TRMC) and AFNWC). Lessons learned will have applications in how we expect cargo at ports of entry. However, the bigger technological gain will likely remain within the Nuclear Hardness and Survivability (NH&S) test enterprise and be applicable to anticipated future efforts at other service test sites.