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Measurements of the Effective Delayed-Neutron Fraction in Two Fast Critical Experiments

Journal Article · · Nuclear Science and Engineering
DOI:https://doi.org/10.13182/nse72-2· OSTI ID:4573593
 [1];  [1];  [1]
  1. Argonne National Laboratory (ANL), Idaho Falls, IL (United States)
Here, the effective delayed-neutron fractions of 235U and 239Pu have been determined for two fast critical assemblies from measurements of the absolute fission rate and the apparent reactivity worths of a calibrated 252Cf neutron source. The experimental values of βeff for the two fissile isotopes, 0.0078 to 0.00233, respectively, are in reasonable agreement with calculations. The results do not explain the 30% discrepancy in measured and calculated reactivity values in fast critical experiments.
Research Organization:
Argonne National Laboratory (ANL), Idaho Falls, ID (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), Nuclear Criticality Safety Program (NCSP); US Atomic Energy Commission (AEC)
DOE Contract Number:
W-31109-ENG-38
NSA Number:
NSA-27-021889
OSTI ID:
4573593
Journal Information:
Nuclear Science and Engineering, Journal Name: Nuclear Science and Engineering Journal Issue: 2 Vol. 49; ISSN 0029-5639
Publisher:
Taylor & Francis
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English