Towards rapid, real-time Pu isotope detection in laser plasmas through laser ablation sampling and collection optimization

This research centers around the development of a laser plasma-based technology for direct and rapid measurements of the isotopes of plutonium (Pu) for nuclear forensics applications. We focused on signature discovery of Pu isotope emission lines and identified the most promising spectral ranges for detection. Additionally, we explored a multidimensional parameter space for optimization of laser plasma formation to improve sensitivity of detection. These efforts allowed us to successfully detect the isotopic shift between 239Pu and 242Pu in previously unexplored spectral ranges for laser plasmas.