Extensive set of low-fidelity cross sections covariances in fast neutron region

M. T. Pigni, M. Herman, P. Obložinský

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

We produced a large set of neutron cross section covariances in the energy range of 5 keV - 20 MeV. The covariance matrices were calculated for 307 isotopes divided into three major regions: structural materials, fission products, and heavy nuclei. These results have been developed to provide initial, but consistent estimates of covariance data for nuclear criticality safety applications. The methodology for the determination of such covariance matrices is presented. It combines the nuclear reaction model code EMPIRE which calculates sensitivity of cross sections to nuclear reaction model parameters, and the Bayesian code KALMAN that propagates uncertainties of the model parameters to cross sections. Taking into account large number of materials, only marginal reference to experimental data was made. The covariances were derived from the perturbation of several key model parameters selected by the sensitivity analysis. These parameters refer to the optical model potential, the level densities and the strength of the pre-equilibrium emission. This work represents the first try ever to generate nuclear data covariances on such a large scale.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationInternational Conference on the Physics of Reactors 2008, PHYSOR 08
PublisherPaul Scherrer Institut
Pages154-161
Number of pages8
ISBN (Print)9781617821219
StatePublished - 2008
Externally publishedYes
EventInternational Conference on the Physics of Reactors 2008, PHYSOR 08 - Interlaken, Switzerland
Duration: Sep 14 2008Sep 19 2008

Publication series

NameInternational Conference on the Physics of Reactors 2008, PHYSOR 08
Volume1

Conference

ConferenceInternational Conference on the Physics of Reactors 2008, PHYSOR 08
Country/TerritorySwitzerland
CityInterlaken
Period09/14/0809/19/08

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