PROMETHEE: An Alpha Low Level Waste Assay System Using Passive and Active Neutron Measurement Methods

The development of a passive-active neutron assay system for alpha low level waste characterization at the French Atomic Energy Commission is discussed. Less than 50 Bq[α] (about 50 μg Pu) per gram of crude waste must be measured in 118-l "European" drums in order to reach the requirements...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Nuclear technology 2002-12, Vol.140 (3), p.303-314
Main Authors: Passard, Christian, Mariani, Alain, Jallu, Fanny, Romeyer-Dherbey, Jacques, Recroix, Hervé, Rodriguez, Michel, Loridon, Joel, Denis, Caroline, Toubon, Hervé
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Applied sciences
DENSITY
Exact sciences and technology
INDIUM 118
LOW-LEVEL RADIOACTIVE WASTES
MANAGEMENT OF RADIOACTIVE WASTES, AND NON-RADIOACTIVE WASTES FROM NUCLEAR FACILITIES
NEUTRON EMISSION
NEUTRONS
PLUTONIUM 239
Pollution
Radioactive wastes
RADIOACTIVITY
SELF-SHIELDING
SENSITIVITY
Wastes
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Summary:The development of a passive-active neutron assay system for alpha low level waste characterization at the French Atomic Energy Commission is discussed. Less than 50 Bq[α] (about 50 μg Pu) per gram of crude waste must be measured in 118-l "European" drums in order to reach the requirements for incinerating wastes. Detection limits of about 0.12 mg of effective 239 Pu in total active neutron counting, and 0.08 mg of effective 239 Pu coincident active neutron counting, may currently be detected (empty cavity, measurement time of 15 min, neutron generator emission of 1.6 × 10 8 s -1 [4π]). The most limiting parameters in terms of performances are the matrix of the drum-its composition (H, Cl...), its density, and its heterogeneity degree-and the localization and self-shielding properties of the contaminant.
ISSN:0029-5450
1943-7471
DOI:10.13182/NT02-A3341