METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR THE IDENTIFICATION OF MATERIALS USING PHOTONS SCATTERED FROM THE NUCLEAR 'PYGMY RESONANCE'

摘要

The scattered intensity of photons from the nuclear Pygmy Resonance taken in conjunction with the scattered intensity at lower energies provides a signal that is sensitive to the nature of the nuclear species doing the scattering. Highly enriched uranium and depleted uranium can be distinguished by this signal from other materials. Other nuclei can also be distinguished and identified. Methods and apparatus for employing the phenomenon to identify or assist in the identification of materials are disclosed.