-opics,
ehesis,
BUETECT:
OBJECTIVE:
Se
stries --4/3-~
LC NE
Biomedical Thermal Effects
-
To evaluate the biological thermal radiation hazard from an
atomic detonation including possible evasive measures, the
protective effects of structures and shelters, and the
protective effects of personel equipment including clothing and
rotective creams.
Test
'
TROCYDURE:
Extensive thermal laboratory and ficld experiments have been
conducted. Close working coordinztion has been effected with
the physical thermal measurements in order to determine charac-
teristics of the thermal putse.
uation factors have
Spectrum, intensity unc atten-
been evaluatcd by pnysicel measuring
devices as weil as by exposure equipment specifically designed
to evaluate physical factors by actually burning biological
specimens.
Physical indicators and animals have been utilized to determine
the piotective effects of various types of shelters including
foxholes.
A combination of laboratory and field data have been used: to
evaluate protective effects of clothing and othcr personal
equipment.
An active program has been initiated to develop a
skin similant which will replace the requirement for the use
of living biological specimens.
STATUS OF
KNOwLEDGE:
The time characteristics of the thermal pulse have been deter-
mined for yields up to 500 KT.
These chtracteristics make
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evasive action impossible. The spectral characteristics for
eirburst have been determined. Surface burst spectrel dete is
not complete.
Threshold values for human skin have been determinod for first
ana second degree burns in humen experimentation and extrapodition of animal data obtsined in the field ang laboratory is
' adequate for the threshold value of thirgdegree burns. Dark
skin is more sensitive than light. Tnis,of particular importance in the range of two to five calorics.
Structures ane shelters including foxholes offer comnlete
protection from thermal injury so lonz as there is no line of
sight exposure of the target.
Laboratory. sources have beer developed which adequately simulate
the bomb pulse for the production of smell ares burns.
Ficld
experience with the pig indicates no essential aifference betveen
small and large area burns on cxnesed skin. There is no accept-—
able laboratory lerge area source available, but it is hoped that
& magnesium furncce will be put into operation this year.
Protection afford:
a7
the laboratory a
complete pro
.
hing pas been nartially evaluated in