<- Nothing Labs Home

Peltier Cooler Based Cloud Chamber

Cloud chambers let you see paths left by radioactive particles as they pass through a supersaturation of alcohol vapor. Vapor trails are formed when the radiation ionizes the alcohol.

They need to be very cold (about -15f) - so most designs require dry ice.

Originally developed by Rich Olson - this design uses inexpensive electrical "Peltier" coolers instead. Unlike other peltier-based cloud chambers - it does not require ice water to operate.

See the Make a Cloud Chamber using Peltier Coolers (Instructable) for full details on making your own for about $100.

Reference information on the previously available "product" version of the cloud chamber can be found here.




(Instructables.com has more detailed instructions than the video below)



Links to related projects:
http://chambrebrouillard.wifeo.com - great info on various particle traces