| Abstrakt: |
A continuing challenge to the analytical community is the quantification of the concentrations of compounds, elements, and isotopes at ultra-trace levels in the presence of huge quantities of competing species. Nuclear material processing, waste remediation, and nuclear nonproliferation applications all need this capability. Recent progress in micro-fluidics, nanofabrication, and far field nanoscopic velocimetry1 have provided the underlying science foundations for developing a high-fidelity nanoscale Labon- a-Chip2,3 sensors for the detection of ions and radionuclides. Understanding the science and technology of nanofluidics and nanofabrication would provide for sensor devices with ultra-high sensitivity, selectivity, and low cost. Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) in collaboration with the University of South Carolina (USC) is developing a program for fluidic sensors with the objectives of applying novel concepts based on electrokinetics and electrophoresis principles to develop a high sensitive detection system based on nanofluidics. The fundamental of the science of micro-to-nano fluidics based measurement techniques provides an opportunity to precisely control experimental condition for fast assay with unprecedented experimental capability for exploration in sensor technology. Microfluidic systems enable parallel operation for multiple assays with small amounts of samples and can be employed for sample pre-concentration (up to 106-108 fold) allowing detection of trace quantities of ions or materials, such as verification of trace Pu in aqueous system. The proposed concept can be applied to the measurement of special nuclear materials (SNM) in aqueous solutions, for example, during advanced fuel-cycle reprocessing or mixed oxide fuel plutonium purification (aqueous polishing). The ability to verify the SNM content on aqueous processes will enhance material accountability and verification technology. This paper is intended to identify and highlight the present state of research in the nanofluidics field and discusses possible direction of development with focus in safeguard needs. A description of nanofluidic field and example of applicability in areas of safeguards are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
