PNNL

Abstract

Trace analysis of particulate material collected on environmental swipe samples continues to be one of the cornerstones of the IAEA’s process of verifying member state compliance as part of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). While complementary to traditional bulk analysis, the ability to measure individual particles can be far more impactful from a radiochronometry perspective. The 234U/230Th radiochronometer is being evaluated as a means of establishing model ages for discrete particles with sufficient confidence. To support the extension of current capabilities, reference materials with a suitable particle form factor and well-documented purification date are actively sought for development with large geometry secondary ion mass spectroscopy.