Compositions and methods for monitoring the quantity of actinides present in a test sample are disclosed. Compositions and methods for monitoring the motion of special nuclear materials through space are also described. Compositions and methods for monitoring the quantity of a fissile special nuclear material present in a test sample are disclosed. Compositions and methods for monitoring actinides during reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel after 30-year cool down are disclosed. Compositions and methods for monitoring actinides during reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel after 180 day cool down are also disclosed.