Synchrotron Studies for Nuclear Security

Program Description

For over 20 years, synchrotron studies at SSRL have supported nuclear security research.  Currently, electronic structure studies in the Tender X-ray region are giving insights on closing the nuclear fuel cycle, and micro-spectroscopy on single particles are of growing interest for nuclear forensics applications.  Over the last decade, EXAFS studies helped guide cleanup of contaminated Superfund Sites; and helped table plans for a new US nuclear weapon’s production facility.  I will give highlights of these studies and offer my perspective on future opportunities for SSRL and LCLS to contribute new science in support of nuclear security.