A CAT SCANNER FOR NUCLEAR WEAPON COMPONENTS

摘要

Lawrence Livermore researchers have developed a computed tomography x-ray system to image nuclear weapon components at the National Nuclear Security Administration's Pantex Plant in Texas. The Confined Large Optical Scintillator Screen and Imaging System (CoLOSSIS) consists of a scintillator; a pyramid-shaped central mirror; four turning mirrors; and four high-resolution, low-intensity visible-light charge-coupled-device cameras. CoLOSSIS uses a 9-megaelectronvolt x-ray beam to take 1,500 separate radiographic images of a test object rotated in increments over 360 degrees. The radiographs are then assembled, using Livermore-developed algorithms, to provide a three-dimensional image with greater resolution than previously achieved using a 9-megaelectronvolt x-ray system. Scientists can "walk through" the image to discover any problems or anomalies. CoLOSSIS is now undergoing final qualification at Pantex before beginning scheduled weapon inspections. Data gathered at Pantex will be reported to scientists and engineers at Lawrence Livermore and Los Alamos national laboratories, the two centers of nuclear weapon design and engineering.