We support UK tech companies and universities in the research and development of radiation resilient products for application in the Space, Accelerator, Ground, Aviation and Nuclear (SAGAN) industries. A common theme in these industries is operation in radiation environments. The damaging effects of radiation on components and systems ranges from performance degradation to catastrophic failure.
With over 20 years experience in computational modelling and irradiation testing, we offer consultancy services and expertise in evaluating the impact of radiation on sensor technologies and electronic systems:
Computational modelling plays a crucial role in simulating radiation environments and is a powerful and cost effective method (compared to testing) for optimising product design or evaluating shielding mitigation strategies. We use the latest state-of-the-art 3D Monte Carlo simulation tools (e.g. FLUKA, GEANT4, MCNP6) and provide radiation simulation services to CERN and industry.
Radiation testing plays a key role in the testing and qualification of components and systems. We have led on numerous test campaigns and have strong links with irradiation facilities, which include: powerful cobalt 60 gamma sources for investigating ionising dose damage; nuclear research reactors for studying dose and atomic displacement damage; high energy proton beams for bulk damage and ionising dose studies. For recent examples of gamma and neutron irradiations see here and here respectively. The proton facility was co-designed by the Sheffield team. We provide guidance and support throughout tests (especially useful for SMEs) to ensure a successful irradiation campaign, and encourage in situ testing to monitor performance.