RAPID-DETERMINATION OF URANIUM AND PLUTONIUM IN SOILS

A method for the rapid determination of U-235 and Pu-239 in soils is p roposed. The method is based on the interaction of neutrons moderated in soil with the nuclei of elements contained in the soil itself. The detailed simulation of the process of neutron moderation in soil by th e Monte-Carlo method indicates that a relatively simple transportable installation for determining uranium and plutonium can be created at t he place of contamination in several minutes. A UNG-1 neutron generato r produced in Russia or a similar device operating in the pulsed mode at a frequency of 300-1000 s(-1) with a pulse duration of approximatel y 0.5 mu s and an average output Q(n)=2x10(8) n/s may be used as the s ource of neutrons.