Glendon Scott Crawford, 51, of Galway, New York, was convicted of attempting to produce and use a radiological dispersal device and conspiring to use a weapon of mass destruction; and distributing information relating to weapons of mass destruction, Justice Department officials said in a statement.
The first charge carries a maximum sentence of life in prison and the second charge up to 20 years in prison.
"He also faces a $2 million fine on the attempting to produce and use a radiological dispersal device charge, and a fine of $250,000 on the other two charges," Justice officials said.
Crawford's defense attorney Kevin Luibrand told The Associated Press his client had no criminal history, and they will file a notice of appeal after the sentencing.