William Bertozzi

Imaging and Radiography with Nuclear Resonance Fluorescence and Effective-Z (EZ-3D) Determination; SNM Detection Using Prompt Neutrons from Photon Induced Fission

Four new technologies have been developed for use in non‐intrusive inspection systems to detect nuclear materials, explosives and contraband. Nuclear Resonance Fluorescence (NRF) provides a three dimensional image of the isotopic content of a container. NRF determines the isotopic composition of a region and specifies the isotopic structure of the neighboring regions, thus providing the detailed isotopic composition of any threat. In transmission mode, NRF provides a two dimensional projection of the isotopic content of a container, much as standard X‐ray radiography provides for density. The effective‐Z method (EZ‐3D™) uses electromagnetic scattering processes to yield a three‐dimensional map of the effective‐Z and the density in a container. The EZ‐3D™ method allows for a rapid discrimination based on effective Z and mass of materials such as those with high Z, as well as specifying regions of interest for other contraband. The energy spectrum of prompt neutrons from photon induced fission (PNPF) provid...

Nuclear resonance fluorescence of 235 U above 3 MeV

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and Passport Systems have collaborated to conduct measurements to search for a nuclear resonance fluorescence response of 235U from 3 to 5 MeV using an 8 g sample of highly enriched uranium. These new measurements complement previously reported measurements below 3 MeV. Preliminary analysis indicates that no strong resonances exist for 235U in this energy range. A second set of measurements focused on a signature search in the 5 to 10 MeV range is still under analysis.

Nuclear Resonance Fluorescence of U-235 above 3 MeV

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and Passport Systems have collaborated to conduct measurements to search for a nuclear resonance fluorescence response of 235U from 3 to 5 MeV using an 8 g sample of highly enriched uranium. These new measurements complement previously reported measurements below 3 MeV. Preliminary analysis indicates that no strong resonances exist for 235U in this energy range. A second set of measurements focused on a signature search in the 5 to 10 MeV range is still under analysis.