Experimental evaluation of Cs-134/Cs-137 atom ratio in MTR-type integral spent fuel elements from the IEA-R1 reactor

• Grant number: 21/06088-3
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: December 01, 2021
• End date: May 31, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Nuclear Engineering - Reactor Technologies
• Principal Investigator: Delvonei Alves de Andrade
• Grantee: Delvonei Alves de Andrade
• Host Institution: Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN). Secretaria de Desenvolvimento Econômico (São Paulo - Estado). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Adelk de Carvalho Prado ; Frederico Antonio Genezini ; Pedro Ernesto Umbehaun ; Walmir Maximo Torres

Abstract

This research project addresses the characterization of nuclear spent fuel presently stored at the IEA-R1 MTR facility, which is run by the Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN). Gamma-ray spectrometry is the most direct non-destructive method for the assessment of spent fuel isotopic inventory. In-pool gamma-ray spectrometry is intended to be performed with a CdZnTe-type detector as a rugged and affordable alternative to HPGe, yet capable of producing relevant data regarding the isotopic content of integral spent fuel elements. The project will contribute directly to the spent fuel characterization and indirectly to the improvement of the reactor utilization. The project faces the scientific challenge of enhancing the native capabilities regarding post-irradiation examination of nuclear fuel. Gamma-ray spectrometry is a proven method of non-destructive analysis and will be used in combination with CdZnTe-compliant peak fitting techniques. A special vertically moving support will allow the spatial dependence of the gamma spectrum to be studied. The Cs-134/Cs-137 atom ratio is expected to be evaluated experimentally over integral spent fuel elements. The project is expected to be completed in 24 months from its approval. (AU)