Supporting ASNO and IAEA in new technologies for nuclear safeguards

A previous partnership between UNSW and the Stimson Center think tank in the US resulted in a software demonstration for the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) showing how blockchain could be used for nuclear material accounting and control. Associate Professor Edward Obbard is an invited expert contributing to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) member state support program task on Exploratory Cooperation on Safeguards Applications of Distributed Ledger Technology, assisted by the Australian Safeguards and Non-Proliferation Office (ASNO). This project aims to implement homomorphic encryption in a model blockchain-based state system for account and control of nuclear material, researching a novel way to provide continuity of knowledge over nuclear material without disclosing specific quantities. It will enhance reputation and build expertise and international networks to meet Australia’s critical challenges in nuclear safeguards.