Compact and transportable system for detecting lead-shielded highly enriched uranium using 252Cf rotation method with a water Cherenkov neutron detector

Autor: Kosuke Tanabe, Masao Komeda, Yosuke Toh, Yasunori Kitamura, Tsuyoshi Misawa, Ken’ichi Tsuchiya, Hiroshi Sagara
Jazyk: angličtina
Rok vydání: 2024
Předmět:
Zdroj: Scientific Reports, Vol 14, Iss 1, Pp 1-10 (2024)
Druh dokumentu: article
ISSN: 2045-2322
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-69526-w
Popis: Abstract The global challenge of on-site detection of highly enriched uranium (HEU), a substance with considerable potential for unauthorized use in nuclear security, is a critical concern. Traditional passive nondestructive assay (NDA) techniques, such as gamma-ray spectroscopy with high-purity germanium detectors, face significant challenges in detecting HEU when it is shielded by heavy metals. Addressing this critical security need, we introduce an on-site detection method for lead-shielded HEU employing a transportable NDA system that utilizes the 252Cf rotation method with a water Cherenkov neutron detector. This cost-effective NDA system is capable of detecting 4.17 g of 235U within a 12 min measurement period using a 252Cf source of 3.7 MBq. Integrating this system into border control measures can enhance the prevention of HEU proliferation significantly and offer robust deterrence against nuclear terrorism.
Databáze: Directory of Open Access Journals
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