Nuclear Nonproliferation
INL operates unique assets to support a broad range of technology development, specialized technology testing and evaluation, and one-of-a-kind radiological trainings. INL provides technical resources, special nuclear materials, and several dedicated outdoor training ranges with access to short-lived radioactive materials that can be employed in support of support civilian and military programs.
INL has recruited top nonproliferation experts with real-world experience and backgrounds in nuclear facility inspection, modeling and simulation, material science, physics and engineering. These employees hold dozens of patents, have won numerous awards, and lead global nonproliferation programs.
INL’s Nuclear & Radiological Activity Center provides access and support to nuclear nonproliferation programs.
Our Capabilities
• Zero Power Physics Research facility is employed as a safeguarded nuclear facility with an internationally recognized research staff working to solve global nonproliferation challenges
• The Hot Fuel Examination Facility (HFEF) is a versatile modern hot-cell facility that is operated and maintained in support of post-irradiation examinations, spent fuel treatment, and characterization of contact-handled transuranic waste
• Fuel Conditioning Facility (FCF) supports Pyroprocessing, or pyrometallurgical treatment of spent nuclear fuel, is the principal alternative to aqueous reprocessing technology
• The Fuel Manufacturing Facility (FMF) is a multiuse R&D facility developing new fuel types that incorporate proliferation-resistant characteristics and use new materials and alloys
• Advanced Test Reactor Complex is the focal point for irradiation testing of nuclear fuels and materials technologies
• Stand-off Experiment Range facilitates high-energy particle accelerator demonstrations
Nuclear & Radiological Activity Center (NRAC)
The Nuclear & Radiological Activity Center (NRAC) is where nuclear research, technology evaluation and training capabilities come together to provide access and support to nuclear nonproliferation programs.
NRAC programs provide access to special nuclear materials, unique infrastructure, capabilities and nuclear expertise.
Radiological training for first responders
For civilian and military first responders who prepare to deal with radiological dispersion devices and other weapons of mass destruction, special training is offered only in a few locations. One of those places is INL. The lab employs world-renowned nuclear scientists, engineers, and nonproliferation experts who lead immersive, hands-on responder training.
International Nuclear Safeguards and Security
Nonproliferation and security experts play an important role in developing technology, policy, and systems for safeguarding and securing nuclear materials and facilities.
As a leader in the nuclear field historically, INL engineers have created detection technology and safeguards and security recommendations for worldwide application. Now, INL is working toward a future where nuclear facilities will be designed to be more efficient and effective at safeguards and protection.
Non-destructively Discerning munitions content
U.S. soldiers rely on an INL technology to examine suspected chemical munitions and containers. The Portable Isotopic Neutron Spectroscopy (PINS) system is a neutron-based assessment device that can safely sense the chemicals inside thick steel containers and quickly determine if the contents are hazardous.
Securing the Nuclear Fuel Cycle
INL provides instructional and hands-on nuclear material protection, control and accountability and emergency management training to personnel responsible for security at commercial nuclear reactors, research reactors and facilities world-wide.
Cellphone-Based Radiation Warning System
INL has developed an early warning system for the threat of radioactive contamination being intentionally dispersed by terrorists. CellRAD is a wireless, advanced nuclear radiation detection software that runs on a cellphone.
