Thermal Radiation and Fire Effects of Nuclear Detonations

Abstract

An unclassified state-of-the-art review of the thermal effects of nuclear weapons, this report summarizes the pertinent information available at the end of 1962. Evidence is presented to show that, in a nuclear weapon attack on targets in urban and rural areas, thermal radiation and fire can be expected to make a major contribution to the destruction of life and property. The characteristics of the emitted thermal radiation, the radiant exposure as a function of distance, and the effects produced by this radiation are summarized. The formation, spread, and control of fires and possibilities for survival in fire zones are discussed. Fire countermeasures which might prove effective in reducing the extent of thermal damage are set forth.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 10, 1963
Accession Number
AD0422411

Entities

People

  • A. Broido
  • Stephen W. Martin

Organizations

  • Naval Radiological Defense Laboratory

Tags

Readers

  • Molecular Photonics/Laser Physics
  • Nuclear Civil Defense.
  • Systems Analysis and Design