Single Source_XRay Irradiator.pdf

Rad Source irradiators are used for SIT and phytosanitary irradiation applications at numerous government and commercial research laboratories around the world and these have been evaluated by the International Atomic Energy Agency in a peer-reviewed publication that documents their performance (doi:10.1016/j.radphyschem.2010.08.11). The RS 2000-Q2 X-Ray irradiator does not use an isotopic source to produce radiation. This reduces the costs associated with extra security measures necessary to house a cobalt source irradiator.

The Rad Source RS 2000-Q2 (4 KW) machine can be operated at a power level of 225 Kv which is the highest energy level machine available in a more economic cabinet style irradiator which can develop x-rays powerful enough needed to penetrate fruits and vegetables for phytosanitary irradiation treatments. There are no comparable machines on the market that can generate these high dose rates ranging from 12-39 grays/min (Gy), which is critical for use in developing phytosanitary treatments and for comparing efficacy with treatments developed using an isotopic source irradiator. Additionally, the RS 2000-Q2, has a high dose uniformity of >95% which is critical for conducting radiation biology studies of insect pests for development of SIT. The RS 2000-Q2 is also the most energy efficient cabinet X-ray device available. These features are critical for developing high-quality data and repeatable experiments. Last, this cabinet style machine is compact and can fit within the limited space available at FPML and will fit into an existing equipment room at FPML that has a sufficient power supply to operate this machine without need of expensive alterations that would be required for larger and more costly machines that can provide similar high energy levels.

Finally, the RS 2000-Q2 X-Ray is compatible with existing equipment presently owned by PPQ Science and Technology to conduct different testes (i.e. sterile insect technique and for phytosanitary treatment). These tests are mission critical activities as they help protect the nation’s agriculture commodities.

4. A description of the market research conducted and the results or a statement of the reason market research was not conducted.

There are several manufacturers that produce irradiators using X-ray tubes. The JYK-001 is made by Hebi Jiaduoke Industry and Trade Co., Ltd., Hebi, China. Market Research indicates that there does not appear to be any U.S. vendors that capable of providing the JYK-001. Per FAR Part 25, the Buy American act restricts the purchase of non-domestic end products.

In regards to other U.S. companies that manufacture irradiators, two additional U.S. irradiators were found.

Precision makes an irradiator marketed as suitable for X-ray irradiation for use in SIT, model X-Rad320.This model has an energy level of only 160 Kv which may be suitable to achieve a dose rate 10-12 Gy/min for SIT research, however, this energy level will not be sufficient to conduct phytosanitary research that is an important part of our planned use at FPML. There are no published reports about either SIT or phytosanitary uses of the Precision X-Rad320 machine. Based on the specifications were provided we this machine not suitable for phytosanitary research. The second company, Stellarray of Austin Texas, makes an innovative flat panel X-ray.

Stellarray makes irradiators for use in imaging, blood irradiation and other health and diagnostic purposes. They are developing their technology for use in SIT for insects under the terms of a Small Business Innovation Research grant from DOE. However, this machine is still in the prototype phase and not yet available for sale.

As a result of our review of available manufacturers, the scientific literature and by consultation with experts in USDA and IAEA the only system that can meet the requirements is the RS 2000-Q2.

5. Estimated price, including all options, if applicable.