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3 Plant Radiation Study Interim Report #5- Part II Data on Gamma Shielding of Special Plutonium Samples
The calculation of shielding the thickness for plutonium is complicated by the many different energies represented in the gamma radiation emitted during decay of the plutonium isotopes. Dose rate predictions are also frequently confused by gamma from varying content of fission product impurities in the plutonium, as well as other gamma radiation induced through alpha and neutron particle absorption within the source material or its environment. After assumptions are made for these many factors the radiation data for shielding determination is still frequently inadequate because of wide variations in dose rates resulting from self-absorption. The degree if self-shielding is in turn dependent on nature of the plutonium compound, degree of compactness, weight, and over-all geometrical distribution of the source material. By preparing a variety of plutonium samples representing combinations of these varying factors, actual dose rates and gamma spectra, as obtained from them, can then be extrapolated for application to specific situations.
Adiabatic Injection
From introduction comments: The present analysis is intended to examine the relations for "adiabatic" injection in general from a different point of view.
Airborne radioactivity survey of the Aspen Mountain area, Sweetwater County, Wyoming
Aerial image shows the result of an airborne radioactive survey over an area of 700 square miles in Sweetwater County, Wyoming with the approximate location of three radioactivity anomalies found. Text describes methods used and discusses the anomalies.
The Approximation with Anisotropic Effects for Cylindrical Geometry
The method of spherical harmonic tensors developed Mark for solving the Boltzmann transport equation in isotropic media is herein extended to anisotropic media for cylindrical geometry. A formal solution is given for the case of two concentric cylindrical media, A and B, but no numerical work has yet been done. The following treatment differs from a similar one by the H. K. Ferguson Co. in that the external medium B is assumed to be both a neutron absorber and finite in extent rather than a non-absorber and infinite in extent.
Beryllium-oxide : [bibliography]
"This is a bibliography of journal articles relating to beryllium oxide. Sources consulted include; Chemical Abstracts, 1951-1955; Physics Abstracts, 1951-1955; Industrial Arts Index, 1955-Jan, 1957; and the library card catalog. Starred articles are available in the library.
The Chemistry of Uranium(VI) Orthophosphate Solutions
From introduction: This is the first in a series of reports describing an investigation of the chemistry of uranium(VI) orthophosphate solutions which is at present underway in this laboratory. Spectrophotometric, potentiometric and solubility studies have been carried out, and it is the first of these which is reported here.
The Choice in Thorium Oxide Slurries for the Prevention of Caking in Circulating Systems
A qualitative theory for cake formation in ThO2 slurries is presented. The sphere formation which occurs in "Standard" slurry can be explained on the same basis. The irregular and unpredictable yield strength is easily fitted into the theory. On the basis of this theory, the writer has been led to the conclusion that only colloidally stable slurries, or slurries with crystallites or comminution-resistant particles which are large enough to overcome colloidal effects (probably larger than 0.1u) can be used with assurance in the ThO2 reactor system. This conclusion holds for 300 gm/kg slurries as well as for more concentrated mixtures.
Composition of Solids from Purex LWW
The solids in Purex lww were first observed during flowsheet tests for recovery of fission products from plant wastes. Since the nature of this solid was not apparent from the flowsheet composition of lww, some work was performed to characterize this material. Although this work has been conducted over a period of about one year, it has been subordinate to the main one of testing flowsheets for fission product recovery. The solids have been observed in each of about six samples of plant lww that have been studied, and the centrifuged volume of solids has been about four percent in each case.
Corrosion Data for Type 347 Stainless Steel Pipe Waste Metal Recovery Process
Introduction: "A limited test progress for the evaluation of type 347 stainless steel pipe which failed the Huey (?) test has been complicated. The tests reported herein were similar in scope to those reported in document number EW-20765, Corrosion Tests on Stainless Steel Plate, Waste Metal Recovery Process. Material tested was obtained on order number EWC-8553, National Tube Company Heat #3X9741. Lots 9789 and 9790."
Corrosion of Aluminum in Alum Coagulated Process Water
The following report provides the results of an accelerated corrosion test that was performed to compare the effect of two coagulants on the corrosion rates of aluminum slug jacket alloy and 72S. Additionally, some analytical data on the water from the two treatments were obtained and are presented in this report.
The Crystal Structure of Neptunium Metal
The following report provides measurements of the crystalline structure of neptunium metal.
Deflection Equations for Various Loading of Circular-Arc Curved Beams
In analyzing stresses, deflections, and forces in piping and certain structural systems, it is useful to have a set of equations giving the deflections at any point of a curved beam in terms of the various loads acting on the beam. This technical report presents the deflection equations for a curved circular-arc beam of variable length. The cases treated include in-plane and out-of-plane bending due to forces and moments applied to the end of the beam in three principal directions, and uniformly distributed loads applied along the beam in these three directions. Deflections were calculated by the strain energy method using Castigliano's theorem.
The Determination of Adsorbed Moisture on Uranium and Uranium Oxide: A New Method for Moisture Determinations
Abstract: "A method is described for determining moisture on uranium and uranium oxides. This method should also be applicable to solid samples which, when heated, do not decompose to form water or liberate a substance which will react with Fischer's reagent. The method should be especially applicable to samples which are insoluble in alcohol or Karl Fischer reagent under normal titration conditions, or which will themselves react with the reagent. The amount of moisture on uranium and uranium oxide was found to be 0.02% except when the oxide was found to be 0.02% except when the oxide source was uranyl sulfate. In this case, the moisture content was found to be 0.1%. Modifications of the procedure and apparatus are presented for improving the accuracy and shortening the time necessary for the determination."
Determination of Radiocesium with Chloroplatinic Acid
The following report examines a rapid method used to eliminate the possibility of explosive perchlorate-organic mixtures in a control laboratory in order to determine radiocesium. These methods include the usage of chloroplatinic acid as a precipitate of radocesium.
Determination of Trivalent Uranium with Methylene Blue
A direct titrimetric method for the determination of trivalent uranium in uranium trifluoride and mixtures of fused fluoride salts was developed. The method is based on the stoichiometric oxidation of trivalent uranium to the tetravalent oxidation state with an acidic solution of methylene blue. The sample containing trivalent uranium is dissolved at room temperature in an excess of standard methylene blue solution in a carbon dioxide atmosphere; the excess oxidant is variation of the method is 1.5 per cent for 5 mg quantities of trivalent uranium. The method was applied to various mixtures of fluoride salts containing both trivalent and tetravalent uranium.
Eddy-Current Inspection of a Possible PWR Fuel Element
The following report follows the inspections of a number of eddy-current instrument procedures. The objectives of these tests were to detect both weld defects and lack of integrity of the body of the fuel elements.
The Effect of Solution and Vessel Thermal Expansion on Volume Measurements in the Chemical Processing Department
The major portion of transfers and inventory in the Chemical Processing Department are dependent on volume measurement. Good volume measurements are therefore essential to good SS material control. Considerable attention has been given to the volume problem especially on primary transfer points. Document HW-57888 discusses the biasing effect pf temperature on manometer oil. HW- 57866 given the procedure for vessel calibration. Other undocumented correspondence has discussed recent calibrations and certain aspects of temperature considerations in the volume determinations. However, there is a need to document for future reference the consideration given temperature and provide at the same time information which covers the temperature angle on all volume methods used in the Chemical Processing Department.
Electrical Precipitator for Aerosol Collection on Electron Microscope Screens
In order to utilize the advantages of the electron microscope for the study of respirable particles, it is desirable to have an instrument capable of sampling from atmospheres having very sparse dispersions of particles at a rate sufficiently high to result in precipitation densities of approximately one particle per 10/u² of microscope screen for a 10 minute sampling period. In order to avoid qualitative or quantitative alteration of the aerosol, it was desired that the instrument collect the sample directly on an electron microscope screen rather than on a filter material for subsequent transfer to the screen. This paper summarizes work aimed at the development of such an instrument.
Extrusion Cladding of Fuel Element
From introduction: "This investigation was undertaken with the general objective of determining whether uranium core could be sheathed with aluminum by an extrusion-cladding process. The ultimate objective of this work was to determine the feasibility of extrusion cladding flat plates of uranium."
Extrusion Cladding of Uranium Fuel Plates
The following report describes two methods of extrusion cladding of uranium fuel plates that were investigated and evaluated.
Fundamental Equations Describing Neutron Behavior in a Cavity
This report provides fundamental equations and maps to calculate neutron behavior in a spherical cavity.
Hazardous Materials - Redox Plant
The Redox process uses or produces only a very few materials that are hazardous for reasons other than radioactivity. The conditions under which these materials become hazardous were carefully taken into consideration in the development of the process and design of the equipment. A considerable about of information on the hazardous properties of the process materials was obtained so that the pertinent material could be incorporated into the process specifications. Providing the equipment is operating properly and the process is being carried out within specification limits, no hazardous conditions can be created by the process. The purpose of this report is to assemble in a single, readily available document all of the information on the normal concentration limits and safe handling procedures needed to adequately control the use and storage of these materials. This report should be helpful in preparing safety bulletins and provide guidance in case of unusual incidents, malfunctioning of equipment, or contemplated changes in either the process or equipment. It is important to remember that a maximum allowable concentration (MAC) is only a limit on the concentration of a toxic material which cannot be exceeded in the air to which workers are constantly exposed to every working day. It does not represent an abrupt demarcation between safe and dangerous concentrations. Exposures to concentrations exceeding the MAC limit are permissible for most but not all toxic materials. Such an exposure is covered by a concentration time (CT) limit whereby an exposure to a specific concentration is permissible for a specific period of time. In case of an unusual incident, leaks, or malfunctioning of equipment involving such a material, it would be no surprise to find that the MAC limit is exceeded, especially in the immediate vicinity of a leak. Several alternatives can be used to cope with such …
Hexone Extraction-Coulometric Titration of Uranium
Samples containing 5 to 10 mg of uranium were extracted with hexone (methyl isobutyl ketone) and titrated coulometrically in sulphate media. Relative standard deviations of 0.45% for samples containing 5 mg and 0.56% for 10 mg were determined by precision studies.
High Current Electron Accelerator
The following report describes the investigations of the microwave solution and the Astron solution, to produce high current electron beams.
High-Energy Peripheral Injection into Mirror Machines
The following report proposes various methods in injecting and heating in mirror machines, using high-energy ion beams.
High-Temperature Oxidation Resistance of Thin Iron-Chromium-Aluminum Alloy Sheet
Abstract: "The oxidation resistance of thin sheets of iron-28 w/o chromium-2.67 to 10.0 w/o alloys, nominally 0.004, 0.006, 0.008, 0.012, and 0.016 in. thick, was determined by exposure in static air for 100 hr at 2100 and 2300 F. A minimum of 3.67 and 9.37 w/o aluminum was necessary to prevent excessive oxidation of 0.004-in.-thick sheet material at 2100 and 2300 F, respectively. Correspondingly, specimens of lower aluminum content and greater thickness withstood the oxidation attack. Oxidation of iron-chromium-aluminum alloys appeared to be related to the diffusion of aluminum to surfaces of the sheet to form an adherent protective layer of Al2O3."
HRT Sampler Development
A prototype sampler for obtaining samples of high radioactive UO2SO4 solution for use in the HRT is presented. It was successfully operated in conjunction with a low pressure water system and a high pressure, high temperature UO2SO4 system.
Hydrogen Embrittlement of Zirconium
Abstract: "The amount of hydrogen normally present in zirconium and zirconium alloys suffices to reduce their ductility greatly in an impact test at room temperature, after slow cooling from 600 F. Quenching from 600 F or above gives high impact strength, as does removal of hydrogen by high-temperature vacuum annealing. This report discusses the evidence on hydrogen embrittlement, the diffusion, solid solubility, and equilibrium pressure of hydrogen of hydrogen in zirconium, the microstructure, and the effects of hydrogen and heat treatment on the mechanical properties of zirconium."
In-Line Scintillation Gamma Monitor : Preliminary Specifications
From introduction: "The following recommendations represent the best estimate, based on present knowledge, of the requirements for generally applicable or "universal" instrument for the continuous monitoring of radioactive process streams in terms of their gamma activity."
In-Reactor Autoclave Corrosion Studies. II, Autoclave Z18
In order to test the effect of chromate ion on the corrosion of Zircaloy-2, a 0.04 m uranyl sulfate solution (enriched) containing added acid, copper sulfate and 557 ppm of Cr (VI) was autoclaved with rocking at 280 degrees C for about eight days in the HB-5 facility of the LITR. The average corrosion rate established by the rate of consumption of oxygen was 9.9 mpy at a power density of 4.9 w/ml. It is indicated by comparison with a previous corrosion study under LITR radiation that the presence of Cr (VI) had no significant effect on the radiation corrosion of Zircaloy-2 by enriched uranyl sulfate solutions. However, the data are not conclusive and may be interpreted as showing a low corrosion rate for a limited period (i.e. a short term inhibition) followed by correspondingly rapid corrosion.
In-Reactor Autoclave Corrosion Studies : LITR I. Outline of Methods and Procedures
During the development of in-reactor corrosion experiments three types of bomb designs have been developed for following quantitatively the consumption of oxygen in a bomb which is fabricated from the particular metal under test. The bombs are designed so as to be rocked continuously during their in-reactor exposure, consequently agitating the uranium salt solution contained in the bomb and permitting gentle movement of the solution past metal specimens and other corroding surfaces. The oxygen pressure is produced within the bomb at the beginning of the run either by the withdrawal of gas from an oxygen tank or by the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide added just prior to closure. Temperature measurements are obtained by mans of thermocouples placed in a well within the bomb body or, in the latest design, there will also be thermocouples staked at several points on the outer wall of the bomb. The assembly is inserted in an experimental access hole in the reactor, brought up to a predetermined operating temperature by means of an electric furnace in close contact with the bomb, and allowed to remain for the desired amount of exposure to reactor radiation. Periodic measurements of temperature and pressure are made and the bomb assembly is finally removed from the reactor before the oxygen supply is depleted. Corrosion data is generally available from two independent sources : (1) The consumption of oxygen is calculated from the periodic temperature and pressure measurements along with known bomb volumes, available solubility data for oxygen and knowledge of the composition of the alloys involved; (2) Loss in weight of the metal specimens in the bomb.
Influence of Absorption on the Effective Value of Eta
This report follows calculations performed to determine the effect of epithermal capture on the value of eta to be used in lattice calculations.
The Influence of End Mirrors, High Density and Long Tube Length on Radial Diffusion
Diffusion in an arc plasma across a magnetic field is investigated. The geometry is similar to that reported in ORNL-1890 but with the addition of magnetic mirrors on the ends of the arc chamber. It is shown that mirrors do not eliminate the "short circuit" effect. Comparison of the e-folding length, rₒ, of the radial ion density with and without mirrors, affords a direct measurement of ℓ/λ where ℓ is the arc length and λ the mean-free-path. In addition rₒ is independent of gas pressure with mirrors and varies as √p without mirrors. The condition for the elimination of the "short circuit" effect is discussed, as well as the case in which the "short circuit" is still present but the ions diffuse (rather than stream) to the end walls. In this case rₒ is directly proportional to the gas pressure. These effects are compared to some experimental results of Neidigh
The Input Admittance of a Ring Circuit
"A ring circuit is a succession or two-port networks and at least one three-port network, each feeding the next at one port and the last feeding the first so that the sequence closes on itself leaving at least one input port. The input admittance is derived in terms ef various matrices describing the circuit for one- and two-input port rings."
Internally Cooled Molten-Salt Reactors
The initial and long-term nuclear characteristics of two internally cooled heterogeneous, graphite-moderated, two-region, molten-salt reactors have been studied. These reactors have doubling times of 22.5 years and 27.5 years. Methods of decreasing the doubling times by removing the Pa233 from the core and be increasing the specific power of the reactor are described.
Limitations for Existing Storage Tanks for Radioactive Wastes from Separations Plants
Continued process improvements in the separation plants provide an incentive for economics in waste storage costs by utilizing existing facilities to their maximum capability consistent with the radiological hazards involved. The major improvements have reduced waste volumes resulting in increased fission product concentration and energy potential. Analyses have been made to determine the effect of this change on the integrity of the existing structures.
Measurement of Large, High-Frequency, Short-Pulse Currents Using a Radial Shunt
Abstract: "The measurement of large, high-frequency, short-pulse currents--ordinarily complicated by inductance, stray magnetic fields, and magnetic forces that tend to disassemble the measuring device--is simplified and made with an average error of 2-1/2% by the use of a specially developed noninductive radial shunt in conjuntion with an oscilloscope. The skin-effect correction is derived theoretically and the accuracy of the method is demonstrated."
Mechanical Properties of Zirconium-Tin Alloys
Abstract: "The mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of induction-melted, zirconium-tin alloys have been determined. The alloys investigated contained from zero to five per cent tin and up to 0.3% carbon. The zirconium used was United States Bureau of Mines sponge zirconium. The mechanical properties investigated include the tensile, hot-hardness, and impact properties."
A Microspark Apparatus for the Study of Inclusions in Metals
A study of metallurgical problems resulting from variation in grain boundaries, bonding layers, and inclusions in metals and alloys has become increasingly important over the past several years. To keep pace with and aid in these studies, several new techniques have been developed in emission and X-ray spectroscopy. In X-ray, areas as smalls as one square micron can be studied by making them targets for a focused electron beam and observing the X-rays emitted (5,2). Such an instrument would be quite helpful at Hanford, but the high original cost is prohibitive.
Neutron Burst from a Cylindrical Untamped OY Assembly
A neutron burst from an untamped cylindrical Oy assembly occurred at the Pajarito Remote Control Laboratory at 1800 hours on 18 April 1952. The circumstances causing the burst and a description of the assembly involved are given There was no personnel hazard. Normal operations could have been resumed on other assemblies withing two or three hours after the burst. No evidence of damage to the oy was observed. It was determined that the burst resulted in 1.5 x 10(16) fissions in the oy. Also reported are some results of the computations and post-burst tests and a discussion of probable time behavior of power level during the burst.
The Nuclear Research Reactor at the University of Michigan: An Evaluation of the Hazards of Operation and Provisions for Limiting These Hazards
The following report discusses the operation of the nuclear research reactor at the University of Michigan, as well as the maximum credible accident to the reactor.
On the Annealing and Aging of Zircaloy-3b
The object of this study was to determine the effects of several annealing treatments and aging treatments on the tensile test behavior of Zircaloy-3b.
Oralloy Hydride Critical Assemblies
Part I of this report covers critical-mass determinations for pseudospheres of oralloy hydride composition (approximating UH3) in 8"-thick Tu and Ni tampers and in the Tu tamper with Ni liner. The critical mass of a hydride cube in the thick Tu also is given. Data on weight and dimensional changes of hydride pieces during the period of use are included. In Part II are presented the results of Rossi time-scale measurements on the hydride assemblies. Values of alpha at delayed critical and its variation with mass in the neighborhood of delayed critical are given. Measurements on the activation of various detectors within the hydride assemblies are described in Part III. Results as a function of radial position are given for Au, for Au shielded by Au and by Cd, for S and for fission catchers with U235 and U238. Reactivity changes resulting from the introduction of foreign materials into the hydride assemblies are discussed in Part IV. Apparent regularities with respect to Z and qualitative interpretations of variations with radius are pointed out. From data for various radial positions, changes in critical mass corresponding to small changes in composition and density are computed.
Ownership maps of parts of Hillsborough and Polk Counties, land-pebble phosphate district, Florida
Maps of parts of Hillsborough and Polk Counties, in the Land-Pebble Phosphate District, Florida.
The Oxidation of Plutonium to the Plutonyl State
This report follows the study of the oxidation of plutonium III and IV to the plutonyl state.
Pilot Plant Tests on Anaconda Ore From the Grants District, Grants, New Mexico
A series of pilot plant runs were made on the Jackpile ore, Jackpile mixed blend, Jackpile-Poison Valley blend, and Jackpile-Arrowhead blend.
Preliminary Report on 2% U235-Enriched UF4-C25H52 Critical Assemblies
A series of critical experiments with blocks of 2% U235-enriched UF4-C25H52 has been initiated at the ORNL Critical Experiments Facility. Thus far assemblies with H:U235 atomic ratios of 195 and 294 have been built in parallelepipedal and simulated cylindrical geometries, both reflected and unreflected. From the results the minimum critical masses for reflected spheres have been determined to be 16.3 and 8.5 kg of U235 for fuel mixtures with H:U235 atomic ratios of 195 and 294, respectively. The minimum critical masses for unreflected spheres of these two fuel mixtures are 24.3 and 12.7 kg of U235, respectively.
Preliminary Report on the Ultrasonic Properties of Uranium
This report discusses preliminary results acquired from investigations made on the ultrasonic properties of uranium, such as sonic vibrations in the megacycle frequency range.
Protection of Carbon Steel from Atmospheric Corrosion
The NPR design calls for carbon steel to be the major constituent in the reactor coolant piping system. The piping and its associated fittings will, in all likelihood, be exposed to atmospheric weather conditions during the period of reactor construction. This type of exposure causes rusting. From experience gained during the startup of KER Loop 1 it is expected that there will be initially high NPR coolant activity levels. The high activity during the startup of KER Loop 1 was partially caused by the activation of rust that was eroded from pipe walls. Prevention of rusting on the carbon steel prior to its introduction into the coolant system would reduce the initial activity levels.
Purification of Mercury Metal
Mercury to be used in polarography as a dropping mercury electrode must be of the highest purity. The author has found that much of the commercial "triple-distilled" mercury as well as that which is repurified on site is not sufficiently pure and because of this, a study of mercury purification techniques was made and a very satisfactory procedure was tested thoroughly. This procedure is described in detail in this report.
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