Our Portfolio: Characterization Projects

CMST Index | Characterization | TMFA

Nondestructive Examination and Assay of Drums Containing Transuranic Waste

Information
Resources

NETL Product Data Sheet

 

Tech ID: 264
Project Overview
The goal of this project was to develop and integrate techniques for nondestructive examination and assay of drums containing transuranic (TRU) waste. The data output from the integrated system, consisting of X-ray, gamma-ray, and neutron interrogation methods, is combined using computer data fusion techniques. The X-ray and gamma-ray inspection modalities are provided by the Waste Inspection Tomography (WIT) system (Tech ID #259) developed under a separate DOE contract; neutron inspection is provided by the Active Passive Neutron Examination Assay (APNEA) system, developed by Lockheed Martin Specialty Components. The integrated system would provide identification of the waste matrix and its density distribution; location of gamma emitters and fissionable components; identification of isotopes; TRU waste localization; and total TRU waste quantification. The project was completed in 1998.

Technology Description
Measured emissions from TRU are known to be low gamma emitters. Neutron based systems are known to be able to assay low gamma emission drums. They require both matrix and geometry corrections in addition to isotopic data. WIT and APNEA alone cannot provide this data. However, the integration of WIT and APNEA can overcome these problems. WIT provides waste matrix geometry, and attenuation information as well as gamma isotropics and gamma tomography assays, while at the same time, APNEA can provide WIT with neutron assay information from drums that are poor gamma emitters. This combination can provide for complete noninvasive NDE/NDA from integrated mobile platforms. This integrated approach meets waste acceptance requirements for transuranic waste by providing the total gram equivalent of 239Pu for an entire waste drum with attenuation corrections based on matrix type and distribution.

Return to Top