Model design of a compact delayed gamma-ray moderator system using Cf for safeguards verification measurements

Rodriguez, D. ; Rossi, F. ; Takahashi, Tone; Seya, Michio; Koizumi, Mitsuo 

Delayed gamma-ray spectroscopy is an active-NDA technique used to determine the composition of HRNM samples by peak-ratio comparison of GRs above 3-MeV from the short-lived fission products. Filtering out the passive GRs from long-lived FPs reduces the DGS signal, so thermal neutrons are used to induce more fission events from fissile nuclides. We are developing a compact system to moderate 2-MeV neutrons that are easier to moderate than 14-MeV neutrons from DT generators. This work describes the ideal moderator optimization for a Cf source that results in cm passing through the sample space with 70% of those below 1-eV. Practical modifications resulted in 20% reductions compared to the optimized design. Evaluations of DGS signals and backgrounds conclude that only a 21-MBq Cf source is required.