Precision Target Fabrication

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) plays a critical role in supporting the Joint Actinide Shock Physics Experimental Research (JASPER) facility at the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS), where researchers study plutonium under extreme shock conditions. Using its expertise in plutonium fabrication and characterization, PNNL produces high-precision targets at the Radiochemical Processing Laboratory for use in JASPER experiments. These experiments generate vital data to ensure the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear stockpile under National Nuclear Security Administration's Stockpile Stewardship Program.

Key Achievements

PNNL delivered its first plutonium target to JASPER under a tight schedule, showcasing exceptional agility in handling gram-scale plutonium and meeting a defense programs milestone. This success highlights the Lab’s technical capabilities and commitment to high-stakes national security missions.

The work requires navigating complex and dynamic challenges, such as accommodating shifting operational conditions and addressing supply chain constraints. PNNL’s multidisciplinary team of engineers, operations staff, and safety experts ensures seamless progress by tackling obstacles with innovation, flexibility, and precision planning. These capabilities position the Lab to meet ambitious goals, including fabricating three additional targets for JASPER experiments as part of its FY26 campaign.