Health and Safety Laboratory Fallout Program Quarterly Summary Report: March 1, 1961 - June 1, 1961 (open access)

Health and Safety Laboratory Fallout Program Quarterly Summary Report: March 1, 1961 - June 1, 1961

Report that summarizes multiple laboratories' reports on global fallout deposition. Reports include data on Strontium-90 deposition recorded by the Health and Safety Laboratory, data from other laboratories, related interpretive reports, and recent publications related to fallout.
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Hardy, Edward P., Jr.; Rivera, Joseph & Frankel, Robert
System: The UNT Digital Library
Bulletin of the Medical Department, Brookhaven National Laboratory (1961) (open access)

Bulletin of the Medical Department, Brookhaven National Laboratory (1961)

N/A
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Brookhaven National Laboratory
System: The UNT Digital Library
THE CORROSION OF ALUMINUM ALLOYS IN THE OAK RIDGE RESEARCH REACTOR (open access)

THE CORROSION OF ALUMINUM ALLOYS IN THE OAK RIDGE RESEARCH REACTOR

A corrosion testing program designed to estimate the potential service life of aluminum alloys used in the construction of the Oak Ridge Research Reactor (ORR) cooling systems has been in progress for over two years. The five alloys (1100, 3003, 5052, 5154, and 6061) used to the greatest extent in the reactor exhibited continuously decreasing corrosion rates since the first 500-hr inspection. Samples exposed in the core-cooling loop have shown a decrease in corrosion rate from a 2.6 mpy maximum for one group during the first 500 hr to an over-all average of less than 0.1 mpy for another group after a full year in test, with the maximum metal loss less than 0.1 mils. Results indicate that with suitable water treatment the aluminum alloys used in the ORR may be expected to give satisfactory performance for many years. Based on the generalized corrosion rates alone, 40 to 50 years of service life may be expected. However, since occasional localized corrosion has been observed (rarely), minor repairs will almost certainly be required before that time. (auth)
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Neumann, P.D.
System: The UNT Digital Library
Design Study of Portable Thermoelectric Nuclear Systems (open access)

Design Study of Portable Thermoelectric Nuclear Systems

Design studies were performed and costs were estimated for an air transportable, 10 Mw(t), pressurized light water thermal circulation reactor, combined with a direct conversion thermoelectric generator and static electrical inversion equipment. This TCR-TE'' concept appears to have potential for ultimate use as a remote unmanned power station. Based on an extrapolation of present reactor technology and on assumed thermoelectric materials properties forecasted to January 1, 1963, a net a-c electrical output of 315 Kw is estimated, assuming the use of 80 deg F local water for cooling purposes. An alternate concept using 80 deg F air for cooling produces 271 Kw, net. These electrical output figures can be improved significantly through a recommended research and development effort. The design and construction of a prototype plant is also recommended. (auth)
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Chajson, L.; DelCampo, A. R. & Kellogg, H.B. et al
System: The UNT Digital Library
Precipitation of Neptunium Peroxide (open access)

Precipitation of Neptunium Peroxide

Optimum conditions were determined for the precipitation of neptunium(IV) peroxide from nitric acid solutions. The results indicate that the precipitation could be applied successfully on a plant scale. Data are presented for the solubility of neptunium peroxide in solutions of nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide. The solubility is less than 10/sup -4/M in 1.5 to 2.5M nitric acid containing 4.5M hydrogen peroxide. Two crystalline modifications of the peroxide were prepared; these two crystalline structures were similar to structures previously reported to plutonium peroxide. (auth)
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Burney, G. A. & Dukes, E. K.
System: The UNT Digital Library
NUMERICAL RESULTS FOR EGCR MODERATOR-ELEMENT STRESS PROBLEMS (open access)

NUMERICAL RESULTS FOR EGCR MODERATOR-ELEMENT STRESS PROBLEMS

A detailed presentation is made of the thermal stresses calculated for the moderater elements in the Experimental Gas-Cooled Reactor. These results are discussed and some conclusions are presented. This report complements a previous report, BMI-1503, which defines the problems and discusses the methods of solution. (auth)
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Hulbert, L.E. & Redmond, R.F.
System: The UNT Digital Library
HIGH PERFORMANCE UO$sub 2$ PROGRAM. Quarterly Progress Report No. 1, April-June 1961 (open access)

HIGH PERFORMANCE UO$sub 2$ PROGRAM. Quarterly Progress Report No. 1, April-June 1961

The maximum operating characteristics that can be achieved with the use of UO/sub 2/ as a reactor fuel are being investigated. Fuel assemblies are being fabricated for measurement of fission gas pressure in UO/sub 2/-filled fuel rods. A pressurized-water loop in GETR is being designed. A heat transfer burnout study is in progress to establish the upper limit of heat flux for studies of central melting in a fuel rod and fuel-cladding interactions. (M.C.G.)
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Weidenbaum, B.
System: The UNT Digital Library
THE SNAP II POWER CONVERSION SYSTEM TOPICAL REPORT NO. 15. CRU DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT (open access)

THE SNAP II POWER CONVERSION SYSTEM TOPICAL REPORT NO. 15. CRU DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT

SNAP II is the designation for a 3-kw nuclear auxiliary power untt to be used in a satellite vehicle. This system consists of a reactor heat source, a mercury Rankine engine and an alternator. The alternator, mercury pump, turbine, and reactor coolant pump are mounted on a common shaft supported by mercury lubricated bearings. Design details and test results concerning the combined rotating unit (CRU) development are described. (auth)
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: unknown
System: The UNT Digital Library
Statistical Analysis of the Frequency and Severity of Accidents to Potential Highway Carriers of Highly Radioactive Materials (open access)

Statistical Analysis of the Frequency and Severity of Accidents to Potential Highway Carriers of Highly Radioactive Materials

The probability of accidents to tractor semitrailers is developed through analysis of accident frequency data in relation to season; geographical factors; road type, traffic and populatlon density; and type of carrier business. Maximum likelihood rates are developed for the potential carriers of radioactivity. Impact characteristics of accidents are studied through the analysis of mass, speed, and energy relations and the effect of these on vehicle and cargo damages is explored. (auth)
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Leimkuhler, F.F.; Karson, M.J. & Thompson, J.T.
System: The UNT Digital Library
DEVELOPMENT OF A PROCESS FOR SODIUM BONDING OF EBR-II FUEL AND BLANKET ELEMENTS (open access)

DEVELOPMENT OF A PROCESS FOR SODIUM BONDING OF EBR-II FUEL AND BLANKET ELEMENTS

Procedures for assembling EBR-II fuel elements with annular sodium bonds between the uranium rods and the stainless steel claddings are outlined. The results of several meltdown and uranium-settling experiments are given. Bonding experiments were performed: furnace bonding, submerged canning, ultrasonic bonding, centrifuging, pressure pulsing, and vibratory bonding. Vibratory bonding was chosen for the production of the first EBR-II core. (D.L.C.)
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Sowa, E.S. & Kimont, E.L.
System: The UNT Digital Library
SPERT IV HAZARDS SUMMARY REPORT (open access)

SPERT IV HAZARDS SUMMARY REPORT

Spert IV is a large pool-type experimental facility for reactor kinetic studies. These studies will include power excursion and instability tests for a variety of reactor designs. Since the Spert IV experimental program requires the performance of tests which will approach, and may exceed the threshold of reactor destruction, the probability of occurrence of the maximum possible accident is not negligible compared with that of other possible accidents. The maximum possible accident for this facility is considered to be a severe nuclear excursion which results in the destruction of the reactor building and the release of 100% of the accumulated fission product inventory of the atmosphere in a steam cloud. The fission product source assumed in the analysis of this accident is an upper limit in view of the nature of the tests to be performed and the heat removal capacity of the system. This postulated accident is independent of the details of core and control system design and is valid for all cores anticipated for use in the experimental program. The major hazards present in the operation of this facility, the precautions to be taken to reduce the probability of an accident, and the consequences of the maximum possible …
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Bentzen, F. L. & Crocker, J. G.
System: The UNT Digital Library
OXIDATION OF GRAPHITE UNDER HIGH TEMPERATURE REACTOR CONDITIONS (open access)

OXIDATION OF GRAPHITE UNDER HIGH TEMPERATURE REACTOR CONDITIONS

A kinetic study was conducted to provide information on oxidation of reactor graphites in the temperature range of 450 to 675 deg C and on the effects of reactor environment on oxidation rates. Among the parameters studied were chemical reactivity of the graphite, prior oxidation, a high intensity gamma flux during oxidation, variation of the surface-to-volume ratio of the graphite specimens, neutron bombardment prior to oxidation exposure, and gas flow rates. Rate equations showed apparent activation energies of 50 kcal/mole in the absence of radiation and 30 kcal/mole in the presence of a 1 x 10/sup 6/ r/hr gamma flux. (auth)
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Dahl, R.E.
System: The UNT Digital Library
Use Test Comparison of TBP Diluents (open access)

Use Test Comparison of TBP Diluents

Several diluents for possible use in TBP Purex Plant solvent were tested. The tests included nitric --nitrous acid degradation, fission prcduct distribution under simulated plant conditions, emulsillcation, and radiolysis. The order of quality of four diluents is n-dcdecane> Soltrol 170> Shell Code 85030(82000)> Shell E-2342. (D.L.C.)
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Mendel, J. E.
System: The UNT Digital Library
THE PHYSICS DESIGN OF THE EBR-II (open access)

THE PHYSICS DESIGN OF THE EBR-II

The physics design problems of the EBR-II are summarized. These include analysis of the EBR-II engineering design as well as applicable zero-power critical experiments. Pertinent reactor safety problems are reviewed. Safety considerations bearing on normal plant operation and manipulations within the reactor are emphasized. The implication of controlled in-pile meltdown experiments is considered. Irradiation damage and metallurgical phase phenomena are summarized and related to reactivity. The nuclear performance of the system is considered in terms of actual plant operation. The predicted shift of both power and reactivity from core to radial reflector is described. (auth)
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Loewenstein, W.B.
System: The UNT Digital Library
A DESCRIPTION OF INTEGRAL PHYSICS DATA FOR FAST REACTOR DESIGN (open access)

A DESCRIPTION OF INTEGRAL PHYSICS DATA FOR FAST REACTOR DESIGN

Integral physics data for fast reactor design are discussed. The measurements needed include those of critical mass, shape factor, detector ratios, neutron spectra, material replacement experiments, reflector savings, neutron lifetime, Rossi- alpha , and similar quantities. Topics covered include Pu- and U/sup 233/-fueled systems, highly enriched U/sup 235/ systems in optimum geometry, uranium cores of various enrichments and dilutions, extreme geometry critical experiments, specific reactor systems, core mockup inhomogeneities, spectral studies and detector ratios, uranium equilibrium spectrum data, materialreplacement measurements, fast reactor dynamics, and suggested future experiments and experimental programs. (M.C.G.)
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Loewenstein, W.B. & Meneghetti, D.
System: The UNT Digital Library
CURRENT STATUS OF THE AC IONIZATION CHAMBER (open access)

CURRENT STATUS OF THE AC IONIZATION CHAMBER

ABS>The design concept of an a-c ionization chamber and its supporting electronics is described. Several designs are possible and the sensors can be tailored to specific requirements when necessary. Mode of operation, signal voltage development, and switching frequency are discussed. High-sensitivity operation is described. Requirements for high-temperature, power-level operation are outlined. (M.C.G.)
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Rusch, G.K.
System: The UNT Digital Library
POWER-TO-VOID TRANSFER FUNCTIONS (open access)

POWER-TO-VOID TRANSFER FUNCTIONS

Variations in the distribution of steam bubble, the "void" distribution, in a boiling channel as a function of changes in heating power were studied. A rectangular test tube, of 1.11 x 4.44-cm cross section and 127-cm height, was inserted in a forced-circulation pressure loop. The tube was heated by passing an a-c current through the tube walls. A power oscillator was built which could give a 10% peak-topeak sinusoidal power modulation at any frequency in the interval from 0.01 to 10 cps. Variations in the volume fraction of steam were observed by means of a gamma densitometer built for the purpose. Accurate void profiles could be taken by traversing the test channel vertically and horizontally. With the void detector stationary at a given height, the amplitude and phase delay of the steam void variations were measured in the frequency range mentioned. The signal from the gamma detector was passed to a harmonic analyzer built for the experiment. This instrument could pick out the void variations coherent with the power variation in the presence of much greater random signal variations caused by the boiling process. The frequency response of steam void was measured at 4 different pressures ranging from 27.2 to …
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Christensen, H.
System: The UNT Digital Library
Electrical Properties of Glass. A Bibliography (open access)

Electrical Properties of Glass. A Bibliography

A bibliography on the electrical properties of glass is presented. The 267 references covering the period from 1930 through 1960 are arranged according to subject. An author index is included. (M.C.G.)
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Kepple, R.
System: The UNT Digital Library
Structures and Properties of Uranium-Fissium Alloys. Final Report- Metallurgy Program 4.1.23 (open access)

Structures and Properties of Uranium-Fissium Alloys. Final Report- Metallurgy Program 4.1.23

A study was made of the phase relations and the properties of uranium-- fissium alloys which have compositions bracketing that intpnded for the first core loading of Experimental Breeder Reactor II. The fissium aggregate in the alloys consisted of the elements Zr, Nb, Mo, Ru, Rh, and Pd. Phase relations are shown to parallel closely those in the dominant U--Mo--Ru ternary system. The uranium gamma phase is stabilized down to 552 deg C, while the beta phase is entirely suppressed at high fissium contents. Certain crystallographic data are given and the minor phases that occur in the alloys are identified. In cast and gammaquenched alloys the retention of the high-temperature gamma phase produced low hardness and low density. The thermal expsnsion behavior of the alloys is shown to be dependent upon composition and prior thermal history. Thermal conductivity data are presented for uranium and the uranium-- fission alloys. The thermal conductivities of the alloys decrease with increasing fissium concentration. (auth)
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Zegler, S. T. & Nevitt, M. V.
System: The UNT Digital Library
Preparation of Uranium(IV) Nitrate Solutions (open access)

Preparation of Uranium(IV) Nitrate Solutions

A procedure was developed for the preparation of uranium(IV) nitrate solutions in dilute nitric acid. Zinc metal was used as a reducing agent for uranium(VI) in dilute sulfuric acid. The uranium(IV) was precipitated as the hydrated oxide and dissolved in nitric acid. Uranium(IV) nitrate solutions were prepared at a maximum concentration of 100 g/l. The uranium(VI) content was less than 2% of the uranium(IV). (auth)
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Ondrejcin, R. S.
System: The UNT Digital Library
THE EXPERIMENTAL BERYLLIUM OXIDE REACTOR. MARITIME GAS-COOLED REACTOR PROGRAM (open access)

THE EXPERIMENTAL BERYLLIUM OXIDE REACTOR. MARITIME GAS-COOLED REACTOR PROGRAM

LIUM OXIDE REACTOR. MARITIME GAS-COOLED The Experimental Beryllium Oxide Reactor, EBOR, will be constructed at the National Reactor Testing Station as the AEC portion of the joint Maritime Administration--AEC Maritime Gas Cooled Reactor Program. The ultimate goal of the Program is the development of nuclear power plants employing a helium cooled and beryllium oxide moderated reactor directly coupled to a closed cycle gas turbine. The objective is to obtain compact nuclear engines suitable for use either in a merchant ship propulsion system or an intermediate size central station power plant in the 20 to 100 Mw(e) size range. The EBOR is a l0 Mw(t) test of the basic fuel element and moderator designs. It is capable of being up-graded in power at a later date to a test of the nuclear reactor turbine concept. The objective of the experiment is outlined. The principal reactor components to be tested and the test facility are described. (auth)
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Moore, W.C.
System: The UNT Digital Library
Design Criteria for Steel in Nuclear Reactors (open access)

Design Criteria for Steel in Nuclear Reactors

S>Criteria for stress analysis and structural design with steel for the critical components of nuclear plants are presented. An effort was made to integrate the effects on the strength of steel of the coexisting phenomena, such as mechanical and thermal loads, stress cycling and fatigue, creep and creep rupture, irradiation, and loss of ductility. Extensive use of the plastic region of steel was made for the accommodation of thermal stresses. The concept of cumulative damage in the plastic region was expounded for thermal fatigue and creep. A short description is given of the five avenues followed for the development of a theory governing the strength of materials. An approach was taken up that attempts to establish a "theory of fatigue" based on experiments. (auth)
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Fistedis, S.H.
System: The UNT Digital Library
Table of Vibrational Force Constants (open access)

Table of Vibrational Force Constants

Tabulations are included for: vibrational and rotational parameters for diatomic molecules; quadratic, cubic, and quartic vibrational force constants of diatomic molecules; parameters for empirical functibns relating force constants to bond length; and cubic force constants for bond stretching in polyatomic molecules. (B.O.G.)
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Herschbach, D. R. & Laurie, V. W.
System: The UNT Digital Library
Corrosion Studies of Ternary Zirconium Alloys in High-Temperature Water and Steam (open access)

Corrosion Studies of Ternary Zirconium Alloys in High-Temperature Water and Steam

The alloying of zirconium to improve corrosion resistance has an empirical basis, and satisfactory explanations for the alloying effects are not available. A theory of compensating valencies in the corrosion oxide is proposed, in which cations of lower and higher valence than zirconium (+4) are present in ratios such that electrostatic neutrality is ensured. An example is an alloy containing equimolar amounts of scandium (+3) and niobium (+5). A number of zirconium alloys were prepared in which scandium or yttrium were paired with elements capable of a +5 or +6 valence. The ternary alloys containing scanadium were superior to the alloys combining yttrium. The alloys containing scandium plus molybdenum, tantalum, or tungsten had relatively long lifetimes in steam at 540 deg C and 600 psi as compared with other alloy combinations, including Zircaloy-2. A quenched alloy containing 0.025 wt% Sc and 0.053 at.% Mlo, that is, 0.05 mol.% of each additive, corroded approximately according to a cubic law up to 758 hr, at which potnt the rate suddenly increased in a manner suggesting hydrogen damage. Examination of the oxide film from alloys containing scandium and molybdenum showed only monoclinic ZrO/sub 2/. It is believed that stabilization of this form of …
Date: July 1, 1961
Creator: Misch, R.D. & Van Drunen, C.
System: The UNT Digital Library