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DTRA’s advancements in nuclear and radiological detection
A new, more complex nuclear age has begun. Echoing the tensions of the Cold War amid rapidly evolving nuclear and radiological threats, preparedness in the modern age is a contest of scientific innovation. The Research and Development Directorate (RD) at the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is charged with winning this contest.
Rocco Pascale Neto, Gustavo G. Souza, Eduarda Victória S. L. Andrade, Alan B. Pavan, Hektor S. A. Monteiro, Ubiratan C. Oliveira, Avelino Santos, Claudio A. Federico, Raquel A. A. Costa e Oliveira, Andre C. Tavares, Edson Andrade
Nuclear Science and Engineering | Volume 200 | Number 5 | May 2026 | Pages 1263-1271
Research Article | doi.org/10.1080/00295639.2025.2509476
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
This study explores the immediate effects of an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) caused by a hypothetical activation of a nuclear device in an urban area. It aims to conservatively evaluate the impact of the EMP beyond its effective ionization radius by estimating electric field values at specific distances from ground zero using computational analytical simulation and empirical data manipulation. The research outlines steps to address a critical challenge in a catastrophic incident, such as a nuclear attack and subsequent electric power loss. The practical significance of this study is substantial, as it establishes an initial framework for developing protective measures to bolster the resilience of urban areas. To achieve this, the study utilizes equations from former research, simulations supported by HotSpot Health Physics Codes, and equations related to the surface activations of nuclear fission devices. The findings underscore the susceptibility of modern societies to EMPs and highlight the necessity for urban critical infrastructure protective strategies.