World-wide capabilities and applications for high-sensitivity environmental sampling and analyses in international safeguards and nuclear material security

Full text: High-sensitivity nuclear environmental sampling and analysis techniques have been proven in their ability to verify declared nuclear activities, as well as to assist in the detection of undeclared nuclear activities and facilities. Environmental sampling and analysis techniques achieved recognition for potential international safeguards use through their effective application by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Iraq following the Gulf War. Through Programme 93+2, the IAEA proved the ability of environmental sampling to support of international safeguards. Subsequently, they were adopted as routine safeguards measures by the IAEA Department of Safeguards. Applications of these techniques were openly expanded to include support in the verification of other nuclear treaties and of nuclear material security activities. Environmental sampling and analysis techniques are now being applied in six broad areas in support of nonproliferation, disarmament treaty verification, national and international nuclear security, and environmental stewardship of weapons production activities. The six areas are: 1) Nuclear safeguards; 2) Nuclear forensics/illicit trafficking; 3) Ongoing monitoring and verification (OMV); 4) Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT); 5) Weapons dismantlement/materials disposition; and 6) Research and development (R and D)/environmental stewardship/safety. As a result of the international community's recognition of the contributions that environmental sampling and analysis technologies make to nuclear materials security and treaty verification, an increase in capabilities for making these measurements has occurred around the world. National governments and international organizations have expanded their investments in new facilities, new equipment, and newly trained staff at the cost of millions of dollars. There now exist varying degrees of capability and performance worldwide. In order for high-sensitivity environmental sampling and analysis techniques to be more effective in their contributions to improving international safeguards and other nuclear material security and verification applications, the international community needs to strengthen and expand communication and areas of cooperation. This paper will describe current capabilities and applications for high-sensitivity environmental sampling and analysis, and will provide recommendations on strengthening international cooperation in these techniques. (author)