Neutron capture cross section measurements at n_TOF of Np-237, Pu-240 and Am-243 for the transmutation of nuclear waste

Abstract

Accurate and reliable neutron capture cross section data for actinides are necessary for the proper design, safety regulation and precise performance assessment of transmutation devices such as Fast Critical Reactors or Accelerator Driven Systems. In particular, the neutron capture cross sections of 237Np, 240Pu and 243Am play a key role in the design and optimization of strategies for the Transmutation of Nuclear Waste. The listed cross sections have been measured in 2004 at n_TOF [1] with a high accuracy due to a combination of features unique in the world: high instantaneous neutron fluence and excellent energy resolution of the n_TOF facility, innovative Data Acquisition System based on flash ADCs and the use of a high performance BaF2 Total Absorption Calorimeter as a detection device.