Radioactive xenon isotopes
Our activities in the CTBT measurement network range from control measurements of sensitive samples through quality control of radionuclide measurement stations to advancements in measurement techniques.
We also cooperate internationally in the areas of training, workshop organization and interlaboratory tests. Xenon Following the decision of the member states to extend the verification network including the measurement of radioactive noble gases, work began on the development of a highly sensitive set-up for measuring radioactive xenon isotopes (131mXe, 133Xe, 133mXe, 135Xe).
In December 2014 the Seibersdorf laboratory ATL03 was the first laboratory worldwide to be certified for the highly sensitive measurement of radioxenon isotopes in atmospheric samples. The laboratory supports the monitoring network established by the CTBTO and contributes to the verification regime of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty.
The global monitoring of radioxenon isotopes in the atmosphere gives insight into the use of nuclear fission. The analysis of the ratios of xenon isotopes – so-called isotopic signatures – allows to distinguish between civil and military sources.