Dual-use items are a challenge to export controllers because seemingly normal materials can be used for weapons development. This example shows gas-centrifuge components produced in Malaysia for Libya's nuclear weapons program.

(Source: Argonne National Laboratory)

An item which has a technical use in both nuclear and non-nuclear applications or civilian and military application, and is subject to certain conditions of supply because such items could make a major contribution to a nuclear explosive activity. Dual use items are recognized as possible process indicators in the evaluation of the nuclear related significance of information on a State's activities. A list of nuclear related dual use items, including equipment, materials and related technology, is incorporated in the Nuclear Suppliers' Group Guidelines and is published in INFCIRC 254*).