X-RAD 320 irradiator equipment used in research for cell, tissue, and animal irradiation.

This purchase is exempt from the usual selection processes of the Procurement Code because the procurement expenditure is for performing sponsored research and other sponsored activities under grants and contracts funded by the sponsor or by sources other than State appropriations. (30 ILCS 500 / 1-13(b)(8)) The present irradiator has security concerns and the University is working with Homeland Security to have the current equipment properly disposed to reduce security risks. The new X-rad 320 has the KV output necessary to deliver high energy irradiation to a depth of 4 cm in a mouse. This depth of penetration is needed in order to provide full body irradiation to a mouse at an energy and depth level consistent with what our Cesium 137 irradiator is currently capable of delivering to a mouse. This is important as the x-ray irradiator is intended to replace in the future cesium 137 as a source of irradiation for both cells and in animal studies.