Abstract
Predictive neutronics simulations depend on accurate nuclear data. We use integral experiments of near critical assemblies as one of the key validation experiments. The accuracy of these measurements is such that they are more constraining to a nuclear data evaluation than the underlying differential data. But the solutions found in calibrating to these benchmarks are degenerate and other data are necessary to discern which is correct. Recently, we have begun to use activation data for this purpose. This paper describes many of the early Los Alamos experiments that are used in this process, with particular attention given to some of the systematic errors that affect these measurements.
Highlights
It is essential to start with accurate nuclear data to make valid predictions for nuclear energy, astrophysics, nuclear medicine and nuclear security
The US Cross Section Evaluation Working Group (CSEWG) that maintains the ENDF/B nuclear data library places a high confidence on the critical assembly experiments performed at Los Alamos in the 1950s
This paper explores the history of the early critical assembly experiments at Los Alamos
Summary
It is essential to start with accurate nuclear data to make valid predictions for nuclear energy, astrophysics, nuclear medicine and nuclear security. We prove that new data are better by demonstrating that for a suite of relevant benchmark measurements the results have improved. This process is not independent because we use those very observations to calibrate the data. The US Cross Section Evaluation Working Group (CSEWG) that maintains the ENDF/B nuclear data library places a high confidence on the critical assembly experiments performed at Los Alamos in the 1950s. These early experiments were performed for exactly this goal, to calibrate predictions of neutron reactivity and transmutation. Particular attention is paid to trying to discuss the systematic errors that may be present in these data
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