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Development of a 3D-Printed Two-Stage Virtual Impactor for Radioactive Aerosol Size Classification and Direct
Hugo Laffolley1, Youichi Tsubota1, Ayame Kuroe2
1Collaborative Laboratories for Advanced Decommissioning Science, Japan Atomic Energy Agency, 2-4 Shirakata, Tokai-Mura, Naka-Gun, Ibaraki 319-1195, Japan.
ACS Omega
|August 8, 2026
Summary
This study developed a low-cost, 3D-printed virtual impactor (μSPLIT) for classifying radioactive aerosol sizes. The device enables direct analysis of airborne particles, crucial for nuclear decommissioning safety.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Nuclear Engineering
- Aerosol Science
Background:
- Radioactive aerosol classification is vital for safety during nuclear decommissioning.
- Existing methods can be costly and generate hazardous waste.
Purpose of the Study:
- Develop a cost-effective, easily disposable virtual impactor for radioactive aerosol size classification.
- Enable direct post-collection analysis of airborne particles.
Main Methods:
- Designed and optimized a two-stage virtual impactor (μSPLIT) using computational fluid dynamics and Lagrangian particle tracking.
- Fabricated prototypes using stereolithography (3D printing).
- Validated performance with incense smoke and radon progeny-bearing NaCl particles.
Main Results:
- Simulations predicted cutoff diameters of 9.0 μm and 1.3 μm for the two stages.
- Experimental tests confirmed collection of submicrometric particles in the <1 μm class.
- Highest alpha activity was detected in the 1-10 μm class for NaCl particles, validating classification.
Conclusions:
- The 3D-printed μSPLIT demonstrates a viable, low-cost solution for radioactive aerosol size classification and direct analysis.
- Identified areas for optimization include the second-stage geometry and quantitative wall loss assessment.
