Determination of useful performance parameters for the ALR8(SI) plutonium pit container system

Abstract

A thorough list of potentially useful performance parameters is generated, and a systematic method is designed to assess which parameters will provide the most significant or useful information about the long-term performance of the ALR8(SI). To generate a thorough list of performance parameters, an exhaustive literature search is performed in several key areas. These areas include the design specifications for the ALR8(SI) pit container system, as well as regulations and requirements for similar container systems used outside the weapons complex. Additionally, original parameters are identified which may also show potential usefulness if modeled or assessed. An assessment method is then created to determine, through a series of objective statements, which of the identified parameters shows pertinent, useful information about the long-term performance of the container if modeled or assessed. The results of this work will allow researchers currently modeling the performance of the ALR8(SI) to better focus their efforts. This work identifies a good starting point for researchers to begin their studies and can limit time and money wasted measuring parameters which will not provide useful information about the performance of this container system over the long-term. Additionally, this work provides an assessment method for researchers now and in the future to use when and if any new performance parameters are identified that show potentially useful information.