In K-edge densitometry (KED), a continuous-energy x-ray beam is transmitted through a liquid sample. The actinide content of the sample can be measured through analysis of the transmitted portion of the x-ray beam. Traditional methods for KED analysis allow the simultaneous calculation of, at most, two actinide concentrations. A generalized multi-edge KED analytical method is presented, allowing up to six actinide concentrations to be calculated simultaneously. Applications of this method for hybrid KED/x-ray fluorescence (HKED) systems are discussed. Current HKED systems require the operator to know the approximate actinide content of each sample, and manually select the proper analysis mode. The new multi-edge KED technique allows rapid identification of the major actinide components in a sample, independent of actinide content. The proper HKED analysis mode can be selected automatically, without requiring sample content information from the user. Automatic HKED analysis would be especially useful in an analytical laboratory setting, where samples with truly unknown characteristics are encountered. Because this technique requires no hardware modifications, several facilities that use HKED may eventually benefit from this approach.

In an effort to better characterize and classify austenitic stainless steel resistance upset welds, standard methods have been examined and alternative methods investigated. Optical microscopy yields subjective classification due to deformation obscured bond lines and individual perception. The use of specimen preparations that better reveal grain boundaries aids in substantiating optical information. Electron microscopy techniques produce quantitative information in relation to microstructural constituents. Orientation Imaging Microscopy (OIM) is a relatively new technique for obtaining objective, quantitative information pertaining to weld integrity, i.e., percent grain boundary growth across the interface.

Legacy plutonium residues often have inadequate item descriptions. Nondestructive characterization can help segregate these items for reprocessing or provide information needed for disposal or storage. Alpha particle-induced gamma-ray spectra contain a wealth of information that can be used for matrix characterization. We demonstrate how this information can be used for item identification. Gamma-ray spectra were recorded at the Los Alamos Plutonium Facility from a variety of legacy, plutonium-processing residues and product materials. The comparison and analysis of these spectra are presented.

This paper summarizes an analysis of the U.S.-Russian Nuclear Material Protection, Control and Accounting (MPC&A) Program, developed on the basis of extensive discussions with U.S. laboratory participants as well as personal experience. Results of the discussions have been organized into three main areas: Technical/MPC&A Progress; Programmatic and Administrative Issues; and Professional Aspects, Implications for MPC&A effectiveness, for MPC&A sustainability, and for future relations and collaboration are derived. Suggested next steps are given.

This paper summarizes an analysis of the US-Russian Nuclear Material Protection, Control and Accounting (MPC and A) Program, developed on the basis of extensive discussions with US laboratory participants as well as personal experience. Results of the discussions have been organized into three main areas: Technical/MPC and A Progress; Programmatic and Administrative Issues; and Professional Aspects, Implications for MPC and A effectiveness, for MPC and A sustainability, and for future relations and collaboration are derived. Suggested next steps are given.