Nuclear forensics

A portable forensic device to detect nuclear isotopes intended for use in weapons has been made by scientists from Canada. The method was miniaturised without compromising its sensitivity, making it suitable for use by nuclear safeguard inspectors travelling the world. 

The device designed by François Doucet, from the National Research Council Canada, and colleagues, combines laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) with chemometrics (statistical analysis). It can produce instant results of uranium-235/uranium-238 and deuterium/hydrogen isotope ratios.  More...

http://www.rsc.org/chemistryworld/News/2011/January/14011101.asp