Development of a detection method for 244Pu by Resonance Ionization Mass Spectrometry

The long-lived actinide 244Pu (t1/2 = 81 Myr) is expected to be present in the Interstellar Medium from fresh r-process nucleosynthesis or in direct ejecta from supernovae. Deposition onto Earth may result in traces of live 244Pu in suitable reservoirs. We are developing a method for 244Pu detection based on resonance ionization mass spectroscopy. Using Gd as a proxy, we determine an overall efficiency of 0.5% in conditions applicable to the detection of Pu, and present preliminary results on Pu detection.