A possible approach to 14 MeV neutron moderation: A preliminary study case. (July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Flammini, D.; Pilotti, R.; Pietropaolo, A.
• Is Part Of: Applied radiation and isotopes. Volume 125(2017:Jul.)
• Page Start: 129
• Page End: 133
• Publication Date: 2017-07
• Subjects: 25.60.P -- 28.20.Gd -- 29.25.Dz; 14 MeV neutrons -- Fusion neutron source -- Moderators; Radiology -- Periodicals; Radiation -- Industrial applications -- Periodicals; Nuclear chemistry -- Periodicals; Internet resource; Periodical; 660.298
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apradiso.2017.04.015
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0969-8043

Abstract

Abstract: Deuterium-Tritium (D-T) interactions produce almost monochromatic neutrons with about 14 MeV energy. These neutrons are used in benchmark experiments as well as for neutron cross sections assessment in fusion reactors technology. The possibility to moderate 14 MeV neutrons for purposes beyond fusion is worth to be studied in relation to projects of intense D-T sources. In this preliminary study, carried out using the MCNP Monte Carlo code, the moderation of 14 MeV neutrons is approached foreseeing the use of combination of metallic materials as pre-moderator and reflectors coupled to standard water moderators. Highlights: Effective moderation of 14 MeV neutron from a D-T neutrons source for applications beyond fusion, such as scattering. New Sorgentina Fusion Source as a new way for obtaining moderated neutron beams for multipurpose applications. A D-T inertial fusion would be the brightest neutron source (A. Taylor et al., Science 315, 1092 (2007)). 14 MeV neutron sources already available in the world may be used to study effective 14 MeV neutron moderation. A strategy is presented in this manuscript that relies on Monte Carlo simulations. Suitable configuration of materials as pre-moderators ad moderators. Comparison of the neutron spectra obtained using different pre-moderator and moderator materials. Preliminary study necessary to prepare proper experimental campaigns to address these issues.