Recent Advances in Nuclear Forensic Science

Nuclear forensics has been established as a new branch in science with the continued reporting of seizures of nuclear material and the need for identifying its origin. By today, the IAEA recorded more than 1000 illicit incidents involving nuclear or other radioactive materials [1]. Once illicitly trafficked nuclear material has been intercepted, the questions of its intended use and origin are to be addressed. Especially the origin is of prime importance in order to close the gaps and improve the physical protection at the sites where the theft or diversion occurred. To answer the questions, a dedicated nuclear forensics methodology has been developed. In this paper, the latest challenges will be described. Selected examples shall illustrate the complexity associated with this work. In particular, the need for reference data, for comparison samples will be highlighted, moreover the importance of definition of crime scene procedures and agreed protocols will be underlined. Finally, it has to be noted, that forensics awareness and dedicated training of all actors involved are essential for successful forensic analysis and for possible attribution of the nuclear material.

MAYER Klaus;  WALLENIUS Maria;  RAY I.;  THIELE Hartmut; 

2007-10-29

Office for Official Publication of the European Communities

JRC41102

https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC41102,