Masters Theses
Date of Award
5-2017
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Major
Nuclear Engineering
Major Professor
John D. Auxier II
Committee Members
Howard L. Hall, Lawrence H. Heilbronn
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.
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
Defense and Security Studies Commons, Geochemistry Commons, Military and Veterans Studies Commons, Nuclear Commons, Nuclear Engineering Commons, Radiochemistry Commons, Terrorism Studies Commons