Accession Number:

ADA066200

Title:

Isotopic Correlation Techniques as an Off-Site Reactor Monitor.

Descriptive Note:

Master's thesis,

Corporate Author:

AIR FORCE INST OF TECH WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB OHIO SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING

Personal Author(s):

• Clark,James L. , Jr

Report Date:

1978-10-01

Pagination or Media Count:

103.0

Abstract:

The feasibility of using the mass ratio Nd146Nd145 and the activity ratio Cs134Cs137 as off-site indicators of bomb-grade plutonium production in commercial light water reactors is examined. The theoretical basis of these ratios as on-site indicators of fluence is developed and experimental validation of their utility as such is examined. The escape rate of cesium and neodymium is approximated and detection limits determined. Although both ratios are experimentally validated as indicators of fluence, neither cesium nor neodymium excapes a reactor in great enough concentration to be accurately measured off-site. Author

Descriptors:

• *ELECTRIC POWER PRODUCTION
• *MONITORS
• *URANIUM
• *RADIOACTIVE ISOTOPES
• *PLUTONIUM
• *LIGHT WATER REACTORS
• RATIOS
• MASS
• CESIUM
• FEASIBILITY STUDIES
• CORRELATION TECHNIQUES
• NEODYMIUM
• INDICATORS
• NUCLIDES

Subject Categories:

• Safety Engineering
• Nuclear Fission Reactors (Power)

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE