Nodal collocation method for the multidimensional PL equations applied to neutron transport source problems. (January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Capilla, M.T.; Talavera, C.F.; Ginestar, D.; Verdú, G.
• Is Part Of: Annals of nuclear energy. Volume 87:Part 2(2016:Jan.)
• Page Start: 89
• Page End: 100
• Publication Date: 2016-01
• Subjects: Multidimensional PL equations -- Spherical harmonics -- Nodal collocation method -- Three-dimensional neutron source benchmarks -- Marshak's vacuum boundary conditions; Nuclear energy -- Periodicals; Nuclear engineering -- Periodicals; 621.4805
• DOI: 10.1016/j.anucene.2015.07.040
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-4549

Abstract

Highlights: The source transport equation is solved with a spherical harmonics-nodal collocation method. Test problems with different kind of sources and scattering are performed. The nature of the problems often requires a high order PL approximation. Marshak's approximation and a medium with zero flux boundary conditions are compared. Abstract: A P L spherical harmonics-nodal collocation method is applied to the solution of the multidimensional neutron source transport equation. Vacuum boundary conditions are approximated by setting Marshak's conditions. The method is applied to several 1D, 2D and 3D problems with isotropic fixed source and with isotropic and anisotropic scattering. These problems are chosen to test this method in limit conditions, showing that in some cases a high order P L approximation is required to obtain accurate results and convergence. Results are also compared with the ones provided by several reference codes showing good agreement. It is also shown that Marshak's approximation to vacuum boundary conditions gives the same results that simulating vacuum with a purely absorbing medium and setting zero flux boundary conditions.