Understanding the Dual-use term in context of vacuum measurement

The term dual-use technology refers to technological systems, equipment, or knowledge that can be applied for both civilian and military purposes. This concept is particularly relevant in fields like aerospace, nuclear technology, communications, and advanced materials, where innovations can serve peaceful applications as well as defense or warfare objectives.

ECCN (Export Control Classification Number) is a term used for classifying items and goods under export control laws. Dual-use vacuum gauges and transducers are classified as 2B230 according to the ECNN listing. 

For a product to be classified as dual-use under the designation 2B230, the following criteria¹ must be present:

All types of 'pressure transducers' capable of measuring absolute pressures and having all of the following: 

a. Pressure sensing elements made of or protected by aluminium, aluminium alloy, aluminium oxide (alumina or sapphire), nickel, nickel alloy with more than 60 % nickel by weight, or fully fluorinated hydrocarbon polymers; 

b. Seals, if any, essential for sealing the pressure sensing element, and in direct contact with the process medium, made of or protected by aluminium, aluminium alloy, aluminium oxide (alumina or sapphire), nickel, nickel alloy with more than 60 % nickel by weight, or fully fluorinated hydrocarbon polymers; and 

c. Having either of the following characteristics: 

1. A full scale of less than 13 kPa and an 'accuracy' of better than 1 % of full-scale; or 

2. A full scale of 13 kPa or greater and an 'accuracy' of better than 130 Pa when measured at 13 kPa. 

Technical Notes: 

1. In 2B230 'pressure transducer' means a device that converts a pressure measurement into a signal. 

2. For the purposes of 2B230, 'accuracy' includes non-linearity, hysteresis and repeatability at ambient temperature

Capacitance diaphragm gauges typically comply with above performance criteria and feature advanced product characteristics. Two primary sensor diaphragm materials dominate the market for CDGs: Inconel, a high-nickel alloy renowned for its excellent corrosion resistance, and alumina ceramic, which also offers outstanding corrosion-resistant properties.

The vast majority of vacuum applications for capacitance diaphragm gauges are civilian in nature. However, uranium enrichment—a process conducted under vacuum in centrifuges—represents a notable exception. While uranium enrichment can serve peaceful purposes, such as generating fuel for nuclear power plants, it can also facilitate the production of weapons of mass destruction.

As a result, CDGs are classified as dual-use products and are subject to strict export controls to prevent misuse in sensitive or unauthorized applications.

References

1 COMMISSION DELEGATED REGULATION (EU) 2023/2616

of 15 September 2023