Researchers Develop Device to Detect Secret Nuclear Material Production

Detection of Illicit Plutonium

Researchers have identified a method to detect whether fusion reactors are being used secretly to produce material for nuclear weapons. The proposed device is designed to "sniff out" the production of plutonium-239, a fissile isotope used in the construction of nuclear bombs.

To develop this detection capability, researchers utilized a simulator from Los Alamos National Laboratory. This simulator allowed the team to model various radiation scenarios, comparing the signatures of "sneaky dual-use fusion reactors" against those of standard control group reactors.

Technical Specifications

The proposed antineutrino detector is relatively compact compared to traditional nuclear monitoring equipment. According to the research, a detector weighing approximately one metric ton—roughly the weight of two grand pianos—would be sufficient to identify illicit plutonium-239 generation.

Placement of the device is critical for effectiveness. The researchers found that a "sweet spot" for detection exists when the device is stationed approximately 82 feet (25 meters) from the center of the reactor.

Proliferation Concerns

The development of this technology comes amid broader concerns regarding the spread of nuclear materials and the technology used to refine them. Senator Markey has previously cautioned that allowing private companies to use Cold War-era plutonium could set a dangerous precedent.

In a letter to the White House, Markey noted that for five decades, the United States has opposed the spread of technology capable of separating plutonium from used reactor fuel. This policy was intended to prevent nations or terrorists from extracting plutonium to create nuclear weapons.