Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defence (CBRN)
Protection against Chemical Agents and other Toxic Chemicals.
Through education and research the Department of Applied Science, Security and Resilience is contributing to civil and military resilience and the preparedness for events involving the deployment of radiological dispersion devices, chemical agents and other toxic chemicals.
Research has been conducted into adsorbents for respirators and fabrics. We characterise materials by adsorption from vacuum and by challenges with flowing air streams, in dry and humid air, at concentrations ranging from a few parts per million to a few percent. We have used many vapours and gases but have a particular interest in the removal of carbon monoxide from fire atmospheres and the chemical protection of the catalysts that can be used to do this. We are also interested in novel respirator designs.
We can measure permeation rates of chemical agents through materials, both fabrics and polymers.
Our research interests also include:
- Human factors in radiation monitoring.
- Modelling tools for emergency response.
- Countermeasures against the "dirty bomb".
- Distribution methods for radiological material.
- Storage and remediation of radiological material.
- A new "land service" dosimeter.
- The immediate response to a "dirty bomb".
- Detection of contraband nuclear material.
Information - CBRN Defence Science, Short Course
Professor Stephen G Murray
T: +44 (0)1793 785681
E: s.g.murray@cranfield.ac.uk
