Date of Award

3-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering

Department

Department of Engineering Physics

First Advisor

Melissa K. Beason, PhD

Abstract

The accessibility of materials and online information has made radiological dispersal devices (RDDs) a more probable threat than conventional nuclear weapons. This study analyzed five datasets from three test periods, using a correlation analysis between optical turbulence, aerosol concentration, and environmental parameters, and geometric mean diameter (GMD) calculations. The correlation analysis failed to yield meaningful insights, prompted a transition to the GMD analysis, which produced clearer results. Findings show GMD ranged from 38–41 nm, increasing at night and during neutral events as reduced vertical motion and boundary layer contraction correlated with optical turbulence. An alternative GMD dataset, calculated by the sensor, yielded similar averages with greater variability (22–54 nm). Overall findings remained consistent, reinforcing the results.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-ENP-MS-25-M-210

DTIC Accession Number

AD1356645

Comments

An embargo was observed for posting this graduate work on AFIT Scholar.  Approved for public release, distribution unlimited. PA case number 88ABW-2025-0249.

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