From abstract: "This report contains a summary of the latest improvements in zirconium purification as developed by the Y-12 research, pilot plant, production, and engineering groups, all of whom have been generously cooperating in this project."

Abstract: The effect of temperature upon the rate of reduction of uranium trioxide by ethyl alcohol has been investigated, and a comparison of the reactivity of the dioxide produced at various temperatures has been made. The percent of carbon in the end product has been studied with respect to both temperature of reduction and length of exposure to alcohol. Optimum conditions for the reduction have been suggested.

The influence of the Doppler effect in the core disassembly process following a meltdown accident is examined with a Bethe-Tait type model in which the Doppler effect, as well as core disassembly, is considered in the reactor shutdown process. It is shown that a strong negative Doppler effect can radically reduce the explosive energy release in such an accident. (auth)

In connection with different seals for C & D equipment it appears advantageous that many parts could be made of rubber or other elastic polymers. However, data on the deterioration rate of these materials under irradiation are somewhat scant in the available literature. It appears that for neutrons and pure gamma radiation that a good grade of natural rubber stands up best in all the test reported and because the results of the neutron irradiation are so closely correlated with results from gamma it has been proposed that the principal source of damage is caused by secondary irradiation generated within the rubber by the neutrons.

The purpose of the test was to determine the temperature and pressure coefficients of reactivity at zero power. Data was obtained during this test which indicates a new temperature coefficient and a pressure coefficient corrected to station operating conditions of 500 F and 1785 PSIG.

The purpose of the test was to determine the level of the radiation field in the Turbine Plant during a significant power run. The initial power level survey had an average radiation level of 0.02 mr/hr. this survey showed and average radiation level of 0.03, which was considered background level. this radiation level was far below the maximum allowable level of 2 mr/hyr. No Neutrons were detected.

The purpose of the test was to determine the ability of the Control Air System to provide the necessary quantity and quality of clean, dry air to keep the rod drive mechanism stator and position indicator housings at about 3 PSIG in order to avoid low stator resistances resulting from condensation during plant cooldown. The Control Air System is capable of providing the quality of air specified in AEC letter SBO:JWF:100 dated November 17, 1958 of less than 44 grains of moisture per lb. of air in the control air line nearest the reactor chamber.

The purpose of the test was to determine the operating conditions of the rod drive mechanisms so that operating personnel may be informed concerning malfunctioning mechanisms. The results the this test favorably agree with previous results. The operating characteristics of the rod drive mechanisms checked in this test have not changed appreciably.