Conceptual design of irradiation device for silicon neutron transmutation doping around Es-Salam research reactor

Silicon neutron transmutation doping remains one of the most viable nuclear applications for research reactors. Providing this kind of product involves an irradiation method capable of fulfilling the quality requirements of doping and alleviating the challenges related to the design and safety of th...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Nuclear science and techniques 2020-04, Vol.31 (4), p.69-78, Article 38
Main Authors: Salhi, M., Mohammedi, B., Laouar, S., Dougdag, M., Touiza, M., Abbaci, M., Moughari, M.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Energy
Hadrons
Heavy Ions
Nuclear Energy
Nuclear Physics
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Summary:Silicon neutron transmutation doping remains one of the most viable nuclear applications for research reactors. Providing this kind of product involves an irradiation method capable of fulfilling the quality requirements of doping and alleviating the challenges related to the design and safety of the irradiation device. In this paper, we propose an irradiation device prototype for neutron transmutation doping of silicon ingots with diameters of 2 to 3 in. based on the Es-Salam research reactor. The thermal hydraulic analysis of the proposed irradiation device was performed to determine the optimum conditions for cooling. The effect of the mechanical vibrations induced by the circulation of coolant in the device was quantified via experimental measurements under different flow rates. The results show that the maximum temperature reached by the silicon ingots is below the temperature limit, effectively validating the design of the irradiation device. Other investigations are prospected to further optimize the design and the irradiation conditions. The irradiation of silicon ingots with a large diameter will be considered.
ISSN:1001-8042
2210-3147
DOI:10.1007/s41365-020-0747-3