Abstract: Experimentally measured promp-neutron decay constants for sub-critical systems are of considerable value as normalization data for calculations of prompt-neutron time constants. A method of measuring these decay constants with a pulsed neutron source, neutron detector and multi-channel time-delay analyzer has been developed and used on a number of fast-spectrum subcritical systems. An analysis of this method based on the one-energy group, one-delayed-neutron group reactor kinetic equations is presented and discussed. The curve of neutron flux versus time predicted by the kinetic equations is compared with the observed curve obtained with a 13.1-cm. diam. enriched-uranium sphere to indicate the application and limitations of the analysis.

From abstract: This bibliography consists of references pertaining to "Effects of Nuclear Radiation Upon Electronic and Electrical Components", and to "Electronic and Electrical Components for Critical Environments". References were compiled from the Classified and Unclassified report literature and the published literature. The following indexes and abstract journals were used: Weapons Data Index, AEC Card Catalog, Engineering Index (1950-55), and Office of Technical Services, Research Reports (1956-March '57).

Abstract: "The free energy (surface tension) of a liquid film can withstand atmospheric pressure across a maximum theoretical gap of 10-(-3) cm between solids if the liquid wets and bridges the sides of the gap continuously. The eutectic alloy of Ga, lm and Sm is used for this purpose. This alloy is molten at room temperature with surface tension > 500 dynes/cm, vapor pressure < 10-(-8) cm at 500 C and excellent wetting properties. This alloy can be utilized in valves, motion seals, flanged joints and for electrical contacts mounted in any position. Using ultrasonic soldering techniques without heat or flux this alloy is readily wetted on W, Mo, Ta, pyrex, quartz and certain ceramics. These materials will withstand the corrosive action of this alloy at at least 400 C. Some de-wetting has been observed with only the nonmetals at high temperatures. This de-wetting may be due to thermal decomposition of gallium oxide. Stainless steel is easily wetted, but is attacked at temperatures above 300 C. Copper and brass are attacked at room temperature."

The following report is based off of one of the author's lectures on the physics of plasma, or ionized gases, which was given on July 16, 1954.

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Progress is reported in studies on the metabolism, radiation dose, radiation effects, and toxic effects of prolonged expesure of dogs following injection of various doses 8/, Th/sup 228, and Sr/sup 90/ An imporved live dog gamma counter is described. (For preceding period see AECU 3522.) (C.H.)

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The oxidation of Hg in HNC/sub 3/ was investigated. An empirical rate law, oxidation rates, and Hg species in solution were determined. A reaction mechanism based on the presence of nitrous acid can be interpreted in terms of the rate expression derived. (auth)

The use of direct refluorinntion to recover plutonium deposited in equipment by consumption and decomposition of PuF/sub 6/ gas was the subject of a brief experimental program Measurable rates of refluorination were obtained at temperatures as low as 170 C and by means of a statistically dcsigned experiment; the approximate signficance of the three variables, temperature, fluorine pressure, and fluorine flow rate, was determined. Temperature was found to be the most significant variable, and the heat of reaction based on removal rates measured from 170 to 350 C compared favorably with reported values obtained by equilibrating PuF/sub 6/ and F2 gas mixtures. At plutonium surface concentrntions below -3 mu g/cm, the rate of refluorination was found to be proportional to the plutonium surface concentration. In no case was the surface concentration decreased below 0.08 mu g/cm2. (auth)

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Memorandum presenting the results of an investigation directed at determining the effectiveness of various amounts and spanwise extents of conical camber on the aerodynamic characteristics of a wing-body-tail combination employing a triangular wing of aspect ratio 2.2. Five cambered wings were tested, all of which were designed for a Mach number of 1.0. Results regarding drag characteristics and lift and moment characteristics are provided.

Memorandum presenting an investigation at high subsonic speeds of a model of a twin-engine swept-wing fighter-type airplane. The model was tested with several different tail configurations and with several wing and engine inlet modifications. Results regarding pitching-moment characteristics, lift and drag characteristics, and lateral derivatives are provided.

Report presenting flight testing of a rocket-powered model of a cruciform canard missile configuration with a low-aspect-ratio wing and blunt nose. Results regarding the lift coefficient, dynamic stability, static stability, control effectiveness, and drag are provided.

Report presenting an investigation using a small-scale ramjet combustor to determine the conditions for spontaneous ignition of pentaborane, amyl nitrate, propylene oxide, and JP-4 fuel. For the range of conditions investigated, the threshold of spontaneous ignition of pentaborane is primarily governed by temperature and is also influenced by burner length and configuration. Combustion efficiency was found to increase in burner length and blocked area of the flame holder.

Report presenting testing of a full-scale rocket-powered model of a cruciform canard missile configuration with a low-aspect-ratio wing and blunt nose. Static and dynamic longitudinal stability and control derivatives were determined at low angles of attack and for a range of Mach numbers.

The distillation method (Argonne Sampler) for the analysis of sodium oxide in NaK was used to calibrate a plug indicator. The description of the equipment, procedure, and experiences with the Argonne Samplers are presented in great detail to aid future users of this method. Although this method is not very precise, it has been thoroughly checked out and is recommended as a standard means for sampling and analysis for oxide in liquid metal systems. (auth)

Data are presented for all toroid runs which circulated aqueous thorium oxide slurries between August 1954, and October 1956. In addition, a tabulation of the properties of numerous thoria preparatiors is presented. (auth)

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The variation of breakaway time, time for scale color change, and metal growth with temperature for arcand graphite melted Zr in oxygen are presented. (For preceding period see AECU-3529.) (auth)

A second thermoelectric generator consisting of unitized rings of thermopiles was designed and constructed. Three and four rings were asserabled into generators and tested. A maximum efficiency of 0.67% was obtained. At a DELTA T of 400 deg C, an efficienty of 0.56% was obtained; the theoretical maximum for the materials used is 0.83%. (auth)

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A summary of the research work done over a 9 1/2 year period and lists of reports and publications are given. The research program involved the development and application of ion exchange, solvent extraction and other methods to the recovery of uranium and other values from ores and leach solutions and exploratory studies on processes for manufacture of reactor-grade UF/sub 4/ at ore-processing mills. (auth)