In this report, La Follette students conduct a cost-benefit analysis on switching from cesium-chloride to x-ray blood irradiators.
Summary
This report evaluates replacing cesium-chloride (CsCl) blood irradiators with x-ray blood irradiators to reduce the threat of CsCl being diverted to a radiological dispersal device (RDD). An RDD combines conventional explosives with radioactive material to contaminate people and the environment. The report finds that in most cases replacing a CsCl irradiator with an x-ray irradiator has positive net benefits from both a private and social perspective and recommends that the National Nuclear Security Administration adopt policies that incentivize switching and phasing out CsCl irradiators for x-ray irradiators.
Information
- Course: Cost-Benefit Analysis Public Affairs 881 taught by Dave Weimer, Fall 2013
- Authors: Erik Bakken, Katie Cary, Allison Derrick, Ellen Hildebrand, Kyle Schroeckenthaler, Malika Taalbi
- Client: Global Threat Reduction Initiative National Nuclear Security Administration