NUCLEAR FORENSICS IN LAW-ENFORCEMENT APPLICATIONS

Over the past several years, the Livermore Forensic Science Center has conducted analyses of nuclear-related samples in conjunction with dom estic and international criminal investigations. Law enforcement offic ials have sought conventional and nuclear-forensic analyses of questio ned specimens that have typically consisted of miscellaneous metal spe cies or actinide salts. The investigated activities have included nucl ear smuggling and the proliferation of alleged fissionable materials, nonradioactive hoaxes such as ''Red Mercury,'' and the interdiction of illegal laboratories engaged in methamphetamine synthesis.