USMA Research Unit Affiliation
Physics and Nuclear Engineering
Date of Award
Spring 5-2017
Degree Type
Master of Science (MS)
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Department
Nuclear Engineering
Abstract
A method for formulation and production of Nuclear UnderGround Engineered Test Surrogates (NUGETS) based on notional improvised nuclear device (IND) detonations in an underground environment analogous to the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS) is presented. Extensive statistical analyses of precursory geochemical and geophysical characteristics are combined with an augmented surrogate debris cooling technique and predictive IND contributions from the ORIGEN Fallout Analysis Tool. Precursory and resultant elemental compositions, cooling curve calculations, and visual comparison of NUGETS to genuine underground debris are reported. Application of NUGETS methodology to future studies in urban, underground post-detonation technical nuclear forensic (TNF) analysis is suggested.
First Advisor
John D. Auxier, II
Second Advisor
Howard L. Hall
Third Advisor
Lawrence H. Heilbronn
Funder
United States Army
Publisher
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Recommended Citation
Gilbreath, Robert Boone, "Development of Nuclear UnderGround Engineered Test Surrogates for Technical Nuclear Forensics Exploitation. " Master's Thesis, University of Tennessee, 2017. https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_gradthes/4708
Included in
Geochemistry Commons, Nuclear Commons, Nuclear Engineering Commons, Radiochemistry Commons