November 2024

ORNL Report

AI for Nuclear Safeguards Verification

By:
Parada Iturria, Francisco F; Martindale, Nathan A; Reasor, Alisa L; Stewart, Scott L; Ukishima, Lindsey A
Publication Date:
November 2024

Abstract

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) utilizes AI/ML to analyze open-source information, including satellite imagery and scientific publications, to verify the completeness of State declarations regarding nuclear activities. AI/ML already assist the IAEA with automating processes and analysis of large datasets, including satellite imagery and unstructured data, improving efficiency and effectiveness of safeguards implementation. AI/ML in nuclear safeguards come with its own challenges that include the need for large, unbiased datasets, the risk of AI-generated fake information, including the potential for manipulation of satellite imagery.