Delayed neutron measurements from fast fission of actinide waste isotopes

Abstract

A study was performed to determine the delayed neutron emission properties from fast fission of several actinide waste isotopes. The specific isotopes evaluated were U-235, Np-237, and Am-243. A calculational technique based on the microscopic method was used to predict initial guesses for the delayed neutron parameters (group decay constants and yields). Based on these calculations, an alternate "seven-group" structure, in contrast to the traditional "six-group" structure used previously, was suggested which would yield a superior fit to the measured data. A series of measurements were performed to test the hypothesis suggested by this alternate group structure. Using a set of highly purified actinide samples (provided by Oak Ridge National Laboratory), the delayed neutron emission decay constants and yields for six groups of the "seven-group" structure were measured for U-235, Np-237, and Am-243. These experiments were performed using the Texas A&M University Nuclear Science Center Reactor, a quick pneumatic transfer system, an integrated computer control and counting system, and a specially designed in-core irradiation device. The values for the total delayed neutron yield (per 100 fissions) from fast-neutron induced fission of U-235, Np237, and Am-243 were determined to be 1.67 ︢0.08, 1.14 ︢0.07, 0.86 ︢0.05, respectively. The newly measured values were compared with other values recommended by Keepin et al., Waldo et al., Saleh et al., and Brady and England. Good agreement was found in all cases. The "seven-group" structure was shown to yield a superior fit to the measured data, as well as, provide a more direct correlation between delayed neutron groups and their associated delayed neutron precursors.