Though several cross sections have been designated as standards, they are not basic units and are interrelated by ratio measurements. Moreover, as such interactions as /sup 6/Li + n and /sup 10/B + n involve only two and three cross sections respectively, total cross section data become useful for the evaluation process. The problem can be resolved by a simultaneous evaluation of the available absolute and shape data for cross sections, ratios, sums, and average cross sections by generalized least-squares. A data file is required for such evaluation which contains the originally measured quantities and their uncertainty components. Establishing such a file is a substantial task because data were frequently reported as absolute cross sections where ratios were measured without sufficient information on which reference cross section and which normalization were utilized. Reporting of uncertainties is often missing or incomplete. The requirements for data reporting will be discussed.

We have designed and are developing three different computer-based spectrometer systems. Two will measure the concentration of Pu solutions by gamma-ray and by stimulated x-ray fluorescence emissions of solid samples in closed containers. All systems are coupled to remote terminals and bar code readers, and also to mini-computer based multichannel analyzers, which in turn are linked to another computer to provide a state-of-the-art nondestructive assay capability. Installation at the Savannah River Plant is planned in late 1985. 7 references.

A high-gain, high extraction efficiency, free electron laser (FEL) amplifier operating at the Experimental Test Accelerator (ETA) at 34.6 GHz has demonstrated a small signal gain of 13.4 dB/m. With a 30 kW input signal, the amplifier has produced a saturated output of 80 MW and a 5% extraction efficiency. Comparison of these results with a linear model at small signal levels indicates that the amplifier can deliver saturated output starting from noise, if the brightness of the electron beam is sufficiently high. The brightness of the ETA is far below that possible with optimized choice of practical design characteristics such as peak voltage, cathode type, gun electrode geometry, and focusing field topology. In particular, the measured brightness of the ETA injector is limited by plasma effects from the present cold, plasma cathode. As part of a coordinated theoretical and experimental effort to improve injector performance, we are using the EBQ gun design code to explore the current limits of gridless, relativistic, Pierce columns with moderate current density (>50 A/cm/sup 2/) at the cathode. The chief component in our experimental effort is a readily modified electron gun that will allow us to test many candidate cathode materials, types, and electrode …