Using synthetic multi-element standards (SMELS) for calibration and quality control of the irradiation facilities in the BR1 reactor

    Research outputpeer-review

    Abstract

    The thermal to epithermal neutron flux ratio (f) and the deviation of the epithermal neutron spectrum from the 1/E shape (α) are essential parameters for the correct application of k 0-standardized neutron activation analysis. Several methods are applied for the determination of f and α. They are based on Cd-covered multi-monitor or on bare-irradiations methods. The recently developed and characterized synthetic multi-element standards (SMELS) were designed as a validation tool for the proper implementation of the k 0-NAA method in a laboratory. In particular, SMELS Type III contains Au and Zr, thus allowing the direct determination of f and α. It could, therefore, replace the traditional flux monitors. Furthermore, it could be used as a quality control material to monitor the stability of the irradiation facility and the detector. This paper presents the accuracy of the f and α determination and the feasibility of quality control using SMELS for irradiation channel Y4 of the BR1 reactor.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)235-241
    JournalJournal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry
    Volume276
    Issue number1
    DOIs
    StatePublished - Jan 2008

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