Can Neutrino Detectors Strengthen the Nonproliferation Regime?

Explore the potential of neutrino detectors in strengthening nuclear nonproliferation efforts through this informative conference talk. Delve into a 40-year history of physicists investigating neutrino detection for monitoring nuclear activities, particularly reactor operations. Examine the challenges of detecting these elusive particles using reasonably sized and cost-effective detectors. Survey various hypothetical applications, including verifying nuclear test ban treaties, uncovering undeclared reactors, monitoring fissile material production, and gathering information about nuclear waste products. Analyze the physical and practical limitations of most applications, while identifying a few cases where existing or future neutrino technology could complement conventional monitoring approaches. Gain insights from Rachel Carr of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology as she presents this compelling topic at the APS March Meeting 2019 in Boston, MA.