Fast Neutron Flux in the University of Maryland Reactor
Fast Neutron Flux in the University of Maryland Reactor
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Date
1965
Authors
Berman, Philip Gilbert
Advisor
Duffey, Dick
Citation
DRUM DOI
Abstract
The fast neutron flux distribution in the experimental
facilities of the University of Maryland Reactor (UMR) was
studied by means of neutron activation threshold foils with
the reactor at a power level of 10 kw. The foils used were
sulfur, magnesium, and aluminum which detected neutrons of
energies greater than 3.0 Mev, 6.3 Mev, and 8.1 Mev, respectively.
The activities of the foils were measured by calibrated
beta and gamma scintillation detection systems. A
central row of fuel elements, the west beam port, and the
through tube were studied using all three types of foils.
The fast neutron flux above 3.0 Mev was measured in each
element of the core. The maximum fast neutron flux above 3.0 Mev available
in the central ''glory hole " was about 2x10^10 n/cm^2 -sec. The
flux above 6.3 Mev and above 8.1 Mev was about 5.5x10^8 n/cm^2 -sec and about 4.5x10^8n/cm^2 -sec, respectively.
Available in the west beam port was a maximum fast neutron
flux above 3.0 Mev of about 2.6x10^9 n/cm^2 -sec adjacent
to the core and of about 1.2x10^7 n/cm^2 -sec at the inner face
of the beam port shield plug. The fast neutron flux above 3.0 Mev available in the center of the through tube was 1.7x10^9 n/cm^2 -sec. The minimum
at both east and west ends, at the inner faces of the
shield plugs, was about 7x10^5 n/cm^2 -sec.