Construction of a linear accelerator which increases the energy of protons from a 4 Mev Van de Graaff injector to a final energy of 31.5 Mev.

Abstract: The results of activity buildup studies in the SM-1 performed during Core I lifetime (June 3, 1957 to April 28, 1960) are reported. Data are presented on the extent, nature, and mechanism of the buildup of long-lived gamma emitting nuclides in the reactor primary system. Radiation levels after reactor shutdown are presented, as well as mathematical equations used to account for the observed activity levels. The data have shown that Co60 is the major contributor to radiation levels in the SM-1. Co60 activity arises from the cobalt in Haynes 25 alloy flux suppressors, and the cobalt impurity in stainless steel. After 35 months operation at an average power level of 55%, deposited Co60 activity accounted for approximately 83% of the total radiation level (mr/hr) contributed by the long-lived gamma emitting nuclides. The contribution of the primary coolant activity to the total radiation level is insignificant when compared to the contribution of the activity deposited on the walls of the system. The radiation level on the super-heater side of the steam generator was about 1400 mr/hr after 35 months of reactor operation. The percentages of Co60 activity in the coolant and in the deposits were not the same. This indicates …

Observation of the long-term effects of weathering on 10 nuclear craters over periods as long as 12 years.

From abstract: "This section, Part II, extends the comparison of two ceramic fuel systems to include the fuel cycle cost comparison in greater detail particularly with respect to fabrication and reprocessing unit costs."

Report describing the results of laboratory tests with procedures for calibration of equipment and performance requirements.

Air filter and rainwater collections of atmospheric fall-out were made at Atlanta, Georgia; Urbana, Illinois; Topeka, Kansas; Fort Worth, Texas; and Nashville, Tennessee. Collections reflect the effects of the radioactive cloud from the Nevada tests.

An experimental program to evaluate the performance of FCR and EFCR fuel during transient operation is outlined, and the initial series of tests are described in some detail. Test results from five experiments in the TREAT reactor, using 1-in. OD SS-clad UO₂ fuel specimens, are compared with regard to fuel temperatures, mechanical integrity, and post-irradiation appearance. Incipient fuel pin failure limits for transients are identified with maximum fuel temperatures in the range of 7000 deg F. Multiple transient damage to the cladding is likely for transients above the melting point of the fuel.

An electromagnetic eddy current instrument is described that is capable of measuring copper and nickel plating 1 to 8 mils thick plated on bismuth mandrils of various sizes and shapes.

From abstract: "Post-irradiation examination consisted of dimensional measurements, gamma scans, determination of fission gas release, visual examination of the fuel, measurement central voids, and metallographic examination of selected samples.

Abstract: A re-evaluation of the cost of producing essentially hafnium free zirconium as zirconium oxide at a rate of 150,000-200,000 pounds zirconium per year by solvent extraction of the metal thiocyanates in a permanent plant has been made. Using part of the present temporary facilities, the cost, with five year amortization of the plant, will be $3.15 per pound zirconium. A by-product of the mixed oxides of hafnium and zirconium, having at least fifty percent hafnium and perhaps as high as ninety percent hafnium, can be made available with little additional cost.

Report that describes work performed by by the Hanford Laboratories Operation on the Plutonium Recycle Program during the Fiscal Year.

Progress report discussing the activities in "a program of studies of nutron-deficient isotopes using the techniques of gamma-ray spectroscopy" (abstract).

A report on using aluminum titanate as a ceramic materiel.

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."

Analytical methods for the presence of the refractory substances in sodium are described.

Progress report discussing projects and work completed by the University of Michigan Department of Chemistry 1957-1958.

Abstract: Critical experiment studies were performed, varying the parameters U235, B10 and metal to water ratio, in the SM-2 7 x 7 core configuration with 38 stationary elements and seven control rods of the SM-1 (APPR-1) type. An experimental mock-up of the SM-1 was assembled using the basic SM-2 fuel plates. Excellent agreement between the SM-1 boron loading, determined by chemical analysis, and the SM-1 mock-up boron loading, for equivalent bank positions, was noted. Several SM-2 mock-ups, cold clean and midlife, were assembled and studied with regard to reflector effects, flow divider effects, relative control rod array worths, critical rod configurations, and relative power distributions. The results of these experiments indicate as satisfactory a U235 loading of 36.4 Kg and a B10 loading of 63.4 grams for the SM-2. Attention is drawn to numerous power peaks present in the active core. The open seven control rod array has a slight reactivity advantage over the closed seven array and consequent minor disadvantage with respect to "stuck rod" criteria.

Report documenting ongoing research and developments at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory's Gas-Cooled Reactor Project.

Abstract: "A general description is given of the permanent zirconium plant at Y-12. Equipment is described and materials of construction are listed. Photographs illustrating principal equipment and reduced construction drawings are also presented. Operating conditions and costs information are listed."

From introduction: "This document discusses the design, fabrication, assembly, and testing of a second generation shim rod assembly, and testing of a second generation shim rod assembly prototype for use in the Plutonium Recycle Test Reactor."

Symposium proceedings regarding long-term storage of highly radioactive wastes resulting from nuclear reactors.

From abstract: "This work amplified previous design studies by considering accidents of greater severity, automatic limiting devices to preclude safety action, and more realistic parameters based on operating experience."

The objectives for this study were to determine fuel fabrication and assembly costs in a large nuclear power industry for several reactors, fuel rod sizes, and fuel materials.

Report discussing the results of fill and drain holes for hydrostatic pressure tests on head knuckle radius of forged-steel gas storage cylinders.