Fissile nuclear material identification in shielding conditions using a neutron resonance analysis technique

Rossi, F.; Lee, J.; 吉見 優希*; 弘中 浩太; 小泉 光生; 芝 知宙; 寺田 和司*; 堀 順一*

ESARDA Bulletin (Internet), 67, p.59 - 67, 2025/12

ISCN is developing an advanced neutron resonance analysis system for the identification and quantification of fissile materials. This system integrates three complementary techniques: NRTA, NRCA, and NRFNA, enabling simultaneous detection and improving sensitivity for fissile material identification. To evaluate the system's performance, we conducted a series of experiments using natural uranium samples with a thickness from 1.5 to 6.0 mm enclosed in a 2 cm thick box made of lead. The results show that even if the presence of lead generates significant background noise due to neutron scattering and reflection, a clear identification of U signatures is possible. These findings highlight the system's versatility and effectiveness in shielding scenarios, offering a promising tool for nuclear security and nonproliferation applications. By enabling concurrent measurements, the system improves accuracy and provides an innovative method for enhancing regulatory and safeguard efforts in the nuclear industry. This work is supported by MEXT under the subsidy for the "promotion for strengthening nuclear security and the like".