Operating in Environments Compromised by Chemical, Biological, Radiological or Nuclear Agents

Safeguarding Australia against chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks, requires an increase in the speed and flexibility with which our defence forces can respond.

DSI researchers are innovating and introducing systems which rapidly alert defence personnel when they have been exposed to chemical or biological contaminants. The systems provide real-time actionable data so personnel and mission-related countermeasures can be deployed, improving mission and personnel health outcomes. Advanced sensors are being developed which can be mounted on drones to check for radiation with an accuracy not currently available and in areas where conventional detection methods are not possible.

These and other CBRN-related projects help our forces avoid contamination, or when avoidance is not an option provide intelligence on the length of time personnel can be exposed without serious risk and what protective equipment will keep them safe and allow operations to continue.

Our focus is on supporting Australia’s defence capability. However, this research also has implications for other environments including contaminated mine sites, emergency search and rescue, and for medical radiation therapy.

DSI also works with the Centre for Radiation Research, Education and Innovation (CRREI) to create and support the next generation of highly skilled researchers to work in this complex and uncertain space.