A Proposal for integrating the PNAR, CIPN, and total -ray techniques for the non-destructive assay of used nuclear fuel assemblies

Bolind, A.

This paper proposes to combine two neutron-based NDA techniques and one -ray NDA technique, to assay used LEU and HEU fuel assemblies. The two neutron techniques are the "passive neutron albedo reactivity" technique (PNAR) and the "Cf interrogation with prompt neutron detection" technique (CIPN). The -ray technique is a total -ray measurement. The two neutron techniques are combined through a mathematical model, while the incorporation of the -ray technique is empirical. By combining the measurements of three independent physical properties, the proposed method satisfies the requirements for a determinate solution of the isotopic content.