Technical Knowledge and Skills

DOE-STD-3015-2004

Nuclear fusion

h. Define the term "fissile materials" and give examples applicable to nuclear explosive

design.

NESSG chairs and other members must have knowledge of the materials used in

nuclear weapons and nuclear explosives, including hazardous properties.

Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills

a. Discuss the mechanical, chemical, nuclear, and radiological characteristics and related

hazards from the following materials used in nuclear explosives/weapons:

Uranium

Plutonium

Tritium

Thorium

b. Discuss the NES implications of the following:

LiH and LiD

Fogbank

Beryllium

UH3

Plutonium hydride

c. Discuss the safety and toxicity issues associated with weapon and process materials as

listed in the existing current Weapon Safety Specifications (WSSs) for weapons in the

stockpile. Discuss the protocols for handling the components of nuclear weapons and

trainers during NES evaluations.

NESSG chairs and other members must have knowledge of the internal design of

nuclear explosives.

Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills

a. Describe, in general terms, the basic design and working principles of implosion and

gun-type devices.

b. Describe the basic design of a thermonuclear weapon using a secondary.

c. Explain the following nuclear explosive concepts and terminology:

Initiation

Boosting

d. Discuss the function, purpose, and design of the following systems and components:

Arming

Fusing

A-8