Research Interests

My research interests lie in the application of micro-analytical techniques for nuclear forensics, nuclear safeguards, and the transport of actinides in the environment. As part of the LLNL nuclear forensics team, I characterize a wide range of nuclear materials (uranium particles, fuel pellets, uranium ore concentrates, etc.) using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and nanoscale secondary ion mass spectrometry (NanoSIMS). I am particularly interested in the way the analysis of the microstructure of the material can reveal important information on the material's origin and/or process history.

In addition to my analytical work, I am also interested and involved in LLNL's international nuclear forensic engagements through the US DOE International Nuclear Forensics Cooperation Subprogram, Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence Program (INFCP).

Ph.D., Chemistry, University of Antwerp, 2008

MSc., Nuclear Engineering, XIOS Hogeschool Limburg, 2003

1. Keegan, E., M.J. Kristo, K. Toole, R. Kips, E. Young, Nuclear Forensic Science: Analytical Chemistry in Support of Nuclear Security, Journal of Analytical Chemistry, submitted.
2. Kips, R., B. Jacobsen, P.K. Weber, Z. Dai, M. Zavarin, A.R. Felmy, A.B. Kersting, Plutonium Migration in the Vadose Zone at the Hanford Site: A NanoSIMS study, Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, submitted.
3. Stefaniak, E., L. Darchuk, D. Sapundjiev, R. Kips, Y. Aregbe, R. Van Grieken, New insight into UO2F2 particulate structure by micro-Raman spectroscopy, Journal of Molecular Structure, 1040 (2013) pp. 206-212.
4. Kips, R., M. Kristo, I. Hutcheon, K. Olsen, J. Amonette, Z. Wang, D. Gerlach, T. Johnson, E. Stefaniak, Measuring Fluorine in Uranium Oxyfluoride Particles using Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry for Nuclear Forensics, Proceedings Radiochimica Acta, 1 (2011) pp. 7-11.
5. Kips, R. and M. Kristo, Investigation of Chemical Changes in Uranium Oxyfluoride Particles using Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry, Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry, 282 (2009) pp. 1031-1035.
6. Kips, R., A. J. Pidduck , M. R. Houlton, A. Leenaers, J. D. Mace, O. Marie, F. Pointurier, E. A. Stefaniak, P. D. P. Taylor, S. Van den Berghe, P. Van Espen, R. Van Grieken and R. Wellum, Determination of Fluorine in Uranium Oxyfluoride Particles as an Indicator of Particle Age, Spectrochimica Acta Part B, 64 (2009) pp. 199-207.
7. Kips, R. and R. Wellum, Fluorine as a Safeguards Tool for Age-Dating of Uranium Oxyfluoride Particles? European Safeguards Research and Development Association Bulletin, 38 (2008) pp. 40-43.
8. Kips, R., A. Leenaers, G. Tamborini, M. Betti, S. Van den Berghe, R. Wellum and P. D. P. Taylor, Characterization of Uranium Particles Produced by Hydrolysis of UF6 using SEM and SIMS, Microscopy and Microanalysis, 13 (2007) pp. 156-164.