Application of micro-Raman spectroscopy to chemical form identification of uranium particles with micro-meter size

Yomogida, Takumi   ; Esaka, Fumitaka  ; Magara, Masaaki  

Recently, we are applying micro-Raman spectroscopy to the identification of the chemical forms of individual uranium particles for nuclear safeguards. In this study, a micro-Raman spectroscopy technique combined with particle detection by scanning electron microscope and micro manipulation was developed to identify chemical forms of uranium particles. The characteristic Raman bands at 445 and 1160 cm assigned to UO structures were observed in the Raman spectrum of a uranium particle with a diameter of 1 m. The particle shape was preserved after the Raman measurement, which indicated the particle was not burned by the laser beam. In conclusion, the chemical forms of individual uranium particles with micro-meter size can be analyzed with the proposed method without damaging the particles.