Dual Measurement Sample Characterization Systems

Calorimetry is a powerful analytical technique often used for safeguard monitoring and nuclear forensics. It can be one of the most accurate and precise methods for determining the total mass of radioactive material in a sample. However, additional characterization by gamma ray spectroscopy is often needed to determine the elemental and isotopic composition of a given sample. The study of a system to advance the combination of calorimetry with a non-destructive analysis technique (i.e. gamma spectroscopy or neutron detection) for dual characterization of a sample is presented. A dual characterization system would decrease the required data acquisition time and provide a complete sample analysis in one step. The initial study into the optimal system configuration is being performed using the Monte Carlo simulation package, GEANT4. The challenges associated with combining techniques, including geometry, shielding, and detector location, are being explored. The required sample mass has been quantified for various isotopes. These preliminary studies were completed for select fission products, uranium isotopes, and transuranic elements relevant to safeguards and forensics applications. Presented here are the initial calculations and simulations.