Abstract: Apparatus for taking smear samples of the surface of objects for sampling radiation or chemical contamination levels. Both wiping area and pressure are controlled giving reliable, repeatable samples. A carriage provided with sampling strips is slideably mounted within a frame. Constant force springs pull the carriage across a known distance upon its release while a pressure roller on the carriage presses the sample strip to the area to be sampled. The sample strip is wound on a take-up reel as each sample is taken. The device is intended for remote or hazardous environments and may be operated manually or by robotics.

Abstract: A cylindrical cask (1) for nuclear reactor fuel comprises a bottom portion (3), a side portion (5), and a top portion (4), each comprising material for shielding against escape of electromagnetic radiation and nuclear particles and for transfer of heat as required. The side portion comprises a plurality of coaxial thin laminas (9,10,11,12), each fitting tightly against the next, and at least two of them having substantial mechanical strength and toughness for stopping the spread of any fracturing that might occur in an adjacent lamina.