The Evolution of the Legal and Technical Aspects of Nuclear Forensics

Abstract

Abstract The discipline of nuclear forensic science (often referred to as ‘nuclear forensics’) can be defined as the examination of nuclear and other radioactive material, or other evidence contaminated with radionuclides, in the context of legal proceedings. It can contribute to both the prevention of and response to an event involving the illicit trafficking of nuclear or other radioactive materials. Nuclear forensics is a maturing and developing discipline, with many states increasing their capabilities for the conduct of a nuclear forensic examination, supported by technical assistance from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The chapter explains where nuclear forensics fits in the bigger picture of nuclear security—charting its history, demonstrating how it works, and discussing the direction in which it is being developed.