System of Automated Operative Control of Radiation Situation of Fast Reaction on the Literal Apparatus Base

Abstract

Introduction. The disaster at the Chornobyl nuclear power plant (ChNPP) resulted in releasing a huge amount of radioactive material into the atmosphere, the total amount of which is difficult to estimate reliably.
Problem Statement. Radioecological works are radiation reconnaissance with detailed mapping of contamination levels and systematic monitoring of radiation situation. One of the most effective methods for surveying the areas contaminated with radiation, as well as for searching radioactive sources is remote measurements of ground-level gamma radiation by aerial gamma-ray spectrometry. Therefore, it is important to design and to test a modern system of operational radiation, infrared, and visual control using airborne vehicles to solve these problems.
Purpose. Development of modern domestic equipment for automated operational control of the radiation environment using airborne vehicles.
Materials and Methods. The methods of mathematical and computer simulation, full scale layout, machine design have been used. In order to study the technical characteristics of the system, its features, field tests of its individual channels have been conducted in the Chornobyl exclusion zone.
Results. An automated system for rapid radiation, infrared, and visual radiation operational control and monitoring of the natural environment has been created based on the R-Navigator airborne vehicle for solving problems of remote control of NPPs and adjacent territories in the case of emergency or accidents with nuclear and radioactive materials.
Conclusions. The proposed development provides high-sensitivity detection of gamma radiation, video recording and remote data transmission to ground control centers for prompt response to emergencies, as well as contributes to reducing the cost of aero-gamma spectrometric works.