Abstract

We are interested in developing real-time analytical methods based on optical spectroscopy to monitor actinides as they exist in the nuclear fuel cycle. These methods can form a part of a nuclear safeguards system designed to prevent the diversion of fissile nuclear materials, such as ²³⁹Pu and ²³⁵U, from peaceful to hostile uses. To achieve wide use, these methods must be sensitive, have isotopic selectivity, be rapid, and be easily implemented in industrial settings.

Energies of the Electronic Configurations of the Lanthanide and Actinide Neutral Atoms

Leo Brewer
J. Opt. Soc. Am. 61(8) 1101-1111 (1971)

Isotopic analysis by optogalvanic spectroscopy

P. Pianarosa, Y. Demers, and J. M. Gagné
J. Opt. Soc. Am. B 1(5) 704-709 (1984)

Nitric oxide breath testing by tunable-diode laser absorption spectroscopy: application in monitoring respiratory inflammation

Chad Roller, Khosrow Namjou, James D. Jeffers, Mark Camp, Adam Mock, Patrick J. McCann, and Joe Grego
Appl. Opt. 41(28) 6018-6029 (2002)

Long-Path Monitoring of Atmospheric Carbon Monoxide with a Tunable Diode Laser System

R. T. Ku, E. D. Hinkley, and J. O. Sample
Appl. Opt. 14(4) 854-861 (1975)

Wavelength-agile diode-laser sensing strategies for monitoring gas properties in optically harsh flows: application in cesium-seeded pulse detonation engine

Scott T. Sanders, Daniel W. Mattison, Lin Ma, Jay B. Jeffries, and Ronald K. Hanson
Opt. Express 10(12) 505-514 (2002)