Results of preliminary study are presented which was performed under subtask 2.7 of the NTS Terminal Waste Storage Program Plan for 1978. Subtask 2.7 examines the feasibility of locating a nuclear waste repository in a granitic stock or pluton in southern Nevada near the Nevada Test Site (NTS). It is assumed for the purposes of this study that such a repository cannot be located at NTS. This assumption may or may not be correct. This preliminary report does not identify a particular site as being a suitable location for a repository. Nor does it absolutely eliminate a particular site from further consideration. It does, however, answer the basic question of probable suitability of some of the sites and present a systematic method for site evaluation. Since the findings of this initial study have been favorable, it will be followed by more exhaustive and detailed studies of the original 30 sites and perhaps others. In future studies some of the evaluation criteria used in the preliminary study may be modified or eliminated, and new criteria may be introduced.

In certain high-current applications the resistance of the aluminum conductors is an important design parameter. Such a case is the aluminum exploding-bridge used in some nuclear detonators. The resistance of the network must be accurately known so that the individual bridge will receive the proper firing current. Vapor-deposited, thick aluminum films (0.011 mm) are often used to produce the necessary circuitry. These films are suitably masked and etched to make the conductors. Conventional etching methods for aluminum or aluminum-0.1 wt percent copper do not yield conductors with a well-defined, reproducible cross section. This results in unacceptable variations in electrical resistance. For this application, we have developed a new etching solution that contains 25 to 50 vol percent polyphosphoric acid, 75 to 50 vol percent orthophosphoric acid, and 10 to 30 g/l ferric chloride. Etching may be done at 55 to 65/sup 0/C, but for precision etching the temperature should be controlled to +-1/sup 0/C. The solution is useful for dip etching of aluminum circuits. The paper describes some limited production experience with this etch.

Primary objectives of this study are to investigate alternative design concepts of thermal coupling of thermionic energy converters (TECs) to the steam cycle and the mechanical and electrical aspects of integrating TEC design into the steam power station. The specific tasks include: (1) evaluate design concepts of TEC topping of solvent refined liquified coal-fired steam power plants, with main emphasis devoted to thermal, mechanical, and electrical design aspects. (2) Develop preliminary conceptual design of a modular TEC assembly. (3) Develop preliminary cost estimates of the design modification to a liquified coal-fired steam power plant with TEC topping. (4) Provide support to Thermo Electron Corporation in planning TEC hardware testing. Results are presented in detail.

Final report documenting a high-sensitivity airborne gamma radiation and magnetic field survey of the Baker National Topographic Map segment (NL 11-11 quadrangle) including a description of the program and results.

Single record data listings taken during aerial gamma-ray and magnetic surveys of the Baker quadrangle in Idaho and Oregon.

Average record data listings taken during aerial gamma-ray and magnetic surveys of the Baker quadrangle in Idaho and Oregon.