Uniqueness of diversion paths at molecular laser isotope separation facility

Since a new uranium enrichment technique by a molecular laser isotope separation (MLIS), which will be commercialized in the future, has been developing vigorously in many countries, it is necessary to investigate a methodology of safeguards approach to a MLIS enrichment facility. The purpose of this study is to analyze basic diversion strategies and then to discuss the uniqueness of diversion paths in comparison with those of a gas centrifuge enrichment facility. Results of this study were as follows; (1) Because of a large separation factor and very short holding time, a diversion rate at the MLIS enrichment facility was larger than one at the gas centrifuge enrichment facility. (2) UF5 fine particles were likely to be adsorbed on the inside wall of multi-jet impactor, so that they might be accounted as an uncertainty associated with MUF in a collection process. (3) Furthermore, from a safeguards point of view, care should be taken to note that depleted uranium stored on the site was reusable as feed materials to produce high enriched uranium. (author)