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http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.net.2021.12.018

Plutonium mass estimation utilizing the (𝛼,n) signature in mixed electrochemical samples  

Gilliam, Stephen N. (University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Nuclear Engineering Department)
Coble, Jamie B. (University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Nuclear Engineering Department)
Goddard, Braden (Virginia Commonwealth University, Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering)
Publication Information
Nuclear Engineering and Technology / v.54, no.6, 2022 , pp. 2004-2010 More about this Journal
Abstract
Quantification of sensitive material is of vital importance when it comes to the movement of nuclear fuel throughout its life cycle. Within the electrorefiner vessel of electrochemical separation facilities, the task of quantifying plutonium by neutron analysis is especially challenging due to it being in a constant mixture with curium. It is for this reason that current neutron multiplicity methods would prove ineffective as a safeguards measure. An alternative means of plutonium verification is investigated that utilizes the (𝛼,n) signature that comes as a result of the eutectic salt within the electrorefiner. This is done by utilizing the multiplicity variable a and breaking it down into its constituent components: spontaneous fission neutrons and (𝛼,n) yield. From there, the (𝛼,n) signature is related to the plutonium content of the fuel.
Keywords
Electrochemical reprocessing; Neutron counting; Safeguards measurement;
Citations & Related Records
Times Cited By KSCI : 3  (Citation Analysis)
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