Author(s)

Tom Grimes, Rusi Taleyarkhan

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This paper (constituting Part A) describes the transformational Tensioned Metastable Fluid Detector (TMFD) based method for “passive” detection of Special Nuclear Materials (SNMs) as related to nuclear security. Purdue University is developing novel, multi-purpose tension metastable fluid nuclear particle detectors by which multiple types of nuclear particles can be detected with high (90%+) intrinsic efficiency, spectroscopic capability, directional information, rapid response, large standoff and significant cost-savings compared with state-of-the-art systems. This paper focuses specifically on recent advances in the use of these novel detector systems for neutron spectroscopy. These techniques will then be discussed and evaluated in the context of area monitoring in waste processing applications with a focus on passive monitoring of radioactive source particles from SNMs. The companion paper (Part B) addresses TMFD technology as it pertains to active interrogation.

Neutron Detection, Metastable, CTMFD, ATMFD, Spectrometry, Unfolding

T. Grimes and R. Taleyarkhan, "Tensioned Metastable Fluid Detectors in Nuclear Security for Passively Monitoring of Special Nuclear Materials―Part A," World Journal of Nuclear Science and Technology, Vol. 1 No. 3, 2011, pp. 57-65. doi: 10.4236/wjnst.2011.13010.