Characterization of Nuclear Particle using IMS 1280 Ultra High Sensitivity Magnetic Sector Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS)

In the past decades, the analysis of small particles has been largely applied to dust samples from nuclear handling facilities in the search of non-declared nuclear activities. Although several analytical techniques have been used, only SIMS can presently perform in situ sensitive elemental and isotopic analysis with sub-μm spatial resolution. Results can be obtained from a specimen as small as a few picograms (1E-12 grams).

IMS 1280 Ultra High Sensitivity Magnetic Sector Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS) from CAMECA

The CAMECA IMS 1280 belongs to a new generation of SIMS instruments specifically designed to perform direct in situ analyses in selected μm-size areas of complex geological samples.

Features of IMS 1280

The IMS 1280 features numerous instrumental advantages that make it the best choice for small particle analysis, among which...

• High transmission at high Mass Resolving Power (MRP): removal of background interference,
• Improved measurement precision for minor isotopes (234U, 236U)
• Multicollector system for optimized precision and greatly improved throughput
• Automatic Particle Measurement software for fast screening of large numbers (millions) of particles deposed over the sample

Uranium Isotope Mass Spectrum in Multicollection Mode

Uraninite sample, O2+ 7keV lp~10nA Positive sec. ions< MRP = 2500

All U isotopes as well as 238U hybride can be recorded simultaneously using the multicollector system: analysis time is considerably shortened and precision improved.

236U / 238U Isotope Ratio on 10 Different Particles

U500 Uranium μm-size standard particles U isotopes on 5 multicollection EMs O2+ 7keV lp~2.5nA Positive sec. ions, MRP = 2500

Excellent precision obtained for the minor isotope 236U in multicollection mode. Minor isotopes provide essential information about enrichment facilities, origin and type of feed materials.

This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by CAMECA SAS.

For more information on this source, please visit CAMECA SAS.