Determining correction factors due to threshold reaction interference in Neutron Activation Analysis

In neutron activation analysis using reactors as a neutron source, it is usually assumed that each radioisotope detected is produced by the (n,γ) reaction on a stable isotope of the same element. However, in most irradiation sites, there is a significant component of fast neutrons which may produce the radioisotope of interest by (n,p) and (n,α) reactions. Failure to correct for these threshold interferences produces significant systematic errors. These interference factors may be significantly different because of the influence of reactor components such as the reflector on the fast neutron spectrum.

The aim of this work is to measure "interference factors" for several well-chosen elements using several activation foils in different irradiation channels of the BR1 reactor. The values obtained in this experimental work will then be compared with some recommended values and calculated values from nuclear data libraries for a pure ²³⁵U prompt fission spectrum.

The minimum diploma level of the candidate needs to be

• Academic bachelor

The candidate needs to have a background in

• Physics
• <p>Industrial engineering</p>

Estimated duration

6 months

Expert group

Nuclear Systems Exploitation