After successful completion of the course, students are able to understand and attribute the nature of radioactive material and radioactive contamination through a forensic approach. The course provides an introduction and overview of nuclear forensics methods and covers applications in criminal forensics and environmental forensics. This includes age and origin determinations of radioactive specimens or contamination using radionuclides as well as the application of the principle of isotopic and chemical fingerprinting. To this end, background information (relevant to forensics) on the operation of nuclear weapons, reprocessing, and nuclear weapons test ban verification will be discussed. Discussion of past examples will deepen understanding.
The lecture is creditable for the following master studies: Physics (elective catalog Atomic and Subatomic Physics) and Technical Chemistry (module Radiochemistry). Since the curricula are only updated once a year, the lecture will only be included in the curricula after the next update. However, the late entry is irrelevant for the crediting.
Frontal lecture with active participation of students
Written exam
Not necessary
Basic knowledge chemistry and physics
