Electrostatic precipitator collection efficiency studies using atmospheric radon progeny as aerosol analogs for nuclear explosion radionuclides.

Electrostatic precipitation (ESP) is an attractive low-powered collection mechanism for mobile and fixed aerosol detection of radionuclides (RNs) for Nuclear Explosion Monitoring (NEM). Aerosol samplers deployed in the International Monitoring System use a blower to draw air through a filter media to collect particulates. ESP-based samplers collect aerosols without a filter, which can greatly increase volumetric flow capacity per watt of power consumed.

Investigating the detection of underground nuclear explosions by radon displacement.

A novel approach is proposed to detect underground nuclear explosions (UNEs) through the displacement of natural radon isotopes (Rn and Rn). Following an explosion, it is hypothesized that the disturbance and pressurization of the sub-surface would facilitate the movement of radon from the depth of the UNE towards the surface resulting in increased soil gas activity. The resulting signal may be magnified by a factor of 2.

Measurements of Argon-39 at the U20az underground nuclear explosion site.

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory reports on the detection of Ar at the location of an underground nuclear explosion on the Nevada Nuclear Security Site. The presence of Ar was not anticipated at the outset of the experimental campaign but results from this work demonstrated that it is present, along with Ar and Kr in the subsurface at the site of an underground nuclear explosion. Our analysis showed that by using state-of-the-art technology optimized for radioargon measurements, it was difficult to distinguish Ar from the fission product Kr.

Recent Bremsstrahlung-based assays of Pb in lead and comments on current availability of low-background lead in North America.

Low-background lead for radiation measurement shielding is often assayed for Pb to ensure acceptable backgrounds. Samples of lead assayed with a germanium spectrometer calibrated for bremsstrahlung-based assay of Pb provide a view into the Pb content of commercial lead in the U.S.

The potential detection of low-level aerosol isotopes from new civilian nuclear processes.

As the world faces a challenging future in maintaining the commercial availability of radioactive isotopes for medical use, new methods of medical isotope production are being pursued. Many of these are small in size and could effectively operate continuously. With the potential for much shorter retention times, a new suite of isotopes may soon be found in the environment.