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Nuclear forensic analysis of thorium

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Abstract

A comprehensive radiochemical isolation procedure and data analysis/interpretation method for the nuclear forensic investigation of Th has been developed. The protocol includes sample dissolution, chemical separation, nuclear counting techniques, consideration of isotopic parent-daughter equilibria, and data interpretation tactics. Practical application of the technology was demonstrated by analyses of a questioned specimen confiscated at an illegal drug synthesis laboratory by law enforcement authorities.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Forensic Science Center, L-178, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 94550, Livermore, CA, USA

    K. J. Moody & P. M. Grant

  2. Isotope Sciences Division, L-231, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 94550, Livermore, CA, USA

    K. J. Moody & P. M. Grant

Authors
  1. K. J. Moody
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  2. P. M. Grant
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Moody, K.J., Grant, P.M. Nuclear forensic analysis of thorium. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 241, 157–167 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02347304

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02347304

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