USE OF 3D PRINTING TO BYPASS NUCLEAR EXPORT CONTROLS
Abstract
Manufacturer specifications of 3D printed items produced with maraging steel powder now meet export control specifications for use in a centrifuge used for uranium enrichment. This includes the Iranian IR-1 centrifuge, which has maraging steel components. 3D printers are not currently export controlled by the US government or any international arms control agreements; potentially allowing an additional proliferation mechanism for this sensitive technology. In order to understand the potential uses of this technology for nuclear proliferation, we propose to perform a technical literature review of current 3D printer capabilities. In particular we will focus on the ability to print items for use in the nuclear fuel cycle, such as components of centrifuges, which are export controlled. This will be supplemented by discussion and input by relevant fuel cycle and additive manufacturing experts. A full exploration will be performed, using open sources, of the 3D printer manufacturing base, the current location of 3D printers capable of printing sensitive items and the availability of sensitive digital designs online such as via ecommerce platforms and the dark web. We will use this research to provide transparent export control recommendations, based on open sources, for relevant classes of 3D printers and associated technologies required in the quality control process and digital designs. We will also provide a summary of potential future developments in additive manufacturing technology relevant to nuclear non-proliferation. Efforts to halt the proliferation of technologies that could be used to enrich uranium enhance global security and are in the clear public interest. Findings of this work will be communicated to international policy makers, members of the additive manufacturing industry and academics researching nuclear arms control.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jul 19, 2016
- Source ID
- N002441610030
Entities
People
- Grant Christopher
Organizations
- Defense Threat Reduction Agency
- King's College London