Effect of U-238 and U-235 cross sections on nuclear characteristics of fast and thermal reactors

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Akie, Hiroshi; Takano, Hideki [Japan Atomic Energy Research Inst., Tokai, Ibaraki (Japan). Tokai Research Establishment; Kaneko, Kunio

1997-03-01

Benchmark calculation has been made for fast and thermal reactors by using ENDF/B-VI release 2(ENDF/B-VI.2) and JENDL-3.2 nuclear data. Effective multiplication factors (k{sub eff}s) calculated for fast reactors calculated with ENDF/B-VI.2 becomes about 1% larger than the results with JENDL-3.2. The difference in k{sub eff} is caused mainly from the difference in inelastic scattering cross section of U-238. In all thermal benchmark cores, ENDF/B-VI.2 gives smaller multiplication factors than JENDL-3.2. In U-235 cores, the difference is about 0.3%dk and it becomes about 0.6% in TCA U cores. The difference in U-238 data is also important in thermal reactors, while there are found 0.1-0.3% different v values of U isotopes in thermal energy between ENDF/B-VI.2 and JENDL-3.2. (author)

Computer simulation of the natural U 238 and U 235 radioactive series decay

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Barna, A.; Oncescu, M.

1980-01-01

The principles of the computer simulation of a radionuclide decay - its decay scheme adoption and codification -, and the adoption principle of a radionuclide chain in a series are applied to the natural U 238 and U 235 series radionuclide decay computer simulation. Using the computer simulation data of these two series adopted chains, the decay characteristic quantities of the series radionuclides, the gamma spectra and the basic characteristics of each of these series are determined and compared with the experimental values given in the literature. (author)

A comparison on determining activities of 238U and 232Th based on transfer samples and some associations of ideas for some investigation passed of environment radiation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Su Qiong; Cheng Jianping; Diao Lijun; Li Guiqun

2006-01-01

A comparison on determining activities of 238 U and 232 Th based on transfer samples is reported in the paper. Especially, disturbance of X-ray from out-sources i.e. non-nucleus-self are studied and more detailed. And other factors that influence this time comparison result are discussed too in the work. In the paper it is pointed out definitely that the characteristic peaks that are disturbed by characteristic X-rays from out-sources ought to be not adopted to determine activities of the samples. In final some associations of ideas for some investigation passed of environment radiation are also described. (authors)

A comparison on determining activities of 238U and 232Th based on transfer samples and some associations of ideas for some investigation passed of environment radiation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Su Qiong; Cheng Jianping; Diao Lijun; Li Guiqun

2007-01-01

A comparison on determining activities of 238 U and 232 Th based on transfer samples is reported in the paper. Especially, disturbance of X-ray from out-sources i.e. non-nucleus-self are studied and more detailed. And other factors that influence this time comparison result are discussed too in the work. In the paper it is pointed out definitely that the characteristic peaks that are disturbed by characteristic X-rays from out-sources ought to be not adopted to determine activities of the samples. In final some associations of ideas for some investigation passed of environment radiation are also described. (authors)

238U content in soils of Byelorussia

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shagalova, Eh.D.

1986-01-01

Results of detection in Byelorussian soils of a heavy natural radionuclide 238 U and its content in humus horizons of the soils on map-schemes are presented. 238 U content is determined by complete decomposition of soils by acids, isolation from thorium using EhDEh-10 P anionite and subsequent solution colorimetry. It is shown that the content of uranium-238 in soils decreases from the North to the South. Its maximum amount (>2x10 -4 %) is detected in turfy-podsolic soils in lake-glacier loams; the minimum one ( -4 %)- in peatymarshy soils. The map-scheme of 238 U content is a background base. Using the background base it is possible to trace the change in uranium content in soils under conditions of technogenic effect and to substantiate the efficiency of environment protection measures

Assay of Uranium Isotopic Ratios 234U/238U, 235U/238U in Bottom Sediment Samples Using Destructive and Non Destructive Techniques (Nasser Lake)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Agha, A.R.; El-Mongy, S.A.; Kandel, A.E.

2011-01-01

Nasser Lake is the greatest man-made lake in the World. It is considered as the main source of water where the Nile water is impounded behind the Aswan high dam.. Uranium has three naturally occurring isotopes 234 U, 235 U and 238 U with isotopic abundance 0.00548, 0.7200 and 99.2745 atom percent. Dissolved uranium in the lake is primary due to weathering process. Monitoring of the isotopic ratios of uranium is used as a good indicator to trace and evaluate the origin and activities associated with any variation of uranium in the lake environment. The main objective of the present study is to clarify any potential variation of natural uranium 234 U/ 238 U, 235 U/ 238 U ratios in sediment samples of Nasser Lake by using destructive alpha and non destructive gamma- techniques. The results show that the uranium isotopic activity ratios are very close to the natural values. This study can also be used for radiological protection and safety evaluation purposes.

Limitations on the precision of 238U/235U measurements and implications for environmental monitoring

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Russ III, G.P.

1997-01-01

The ability to determine the isotopic composition of uranium in environmental samples is an important component of the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) safeguards program, and variations in the isotopic ratio 238 U/ 235 U provide the most direct evidence of isotopic enrichment activities. The interpretation of observed variations in 238 U/ 235 U depends on the ability to distinguish enrichment from instrumental biases and any variations occurring in the environment but not related to enrichment activities. Instrumental biases that have historically limited the accuracy of 238 U/ 235 U determinations can be eliminated by the use of the 233 U/ 236 U double-spike technique. With this technique, it is possible to determine the 238 U/ 235 U in samples to an accuracy equal to the precision of the measurement, ca. 0.1% for a few 10's of nanograms of uranium. Given an accurate determination of 238 U/ 235 U, positive identification of enrichment activities depends on the observed value being outside the range of 238 U/ 235 U's expected as a result of natural or environmental variations. Analyses of a suite of soil samples showed no variation beyond 0.2% in 238 U/ 235 U

Preparation and characterization of 238Pu-ceramics for radiation damage experiments

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

DM Strachan; RD Scheele; WC Buchmiller; JD Vienna; RL Sell; RJ Elovich

2000-01-01

As a result of treaty agreements between Russia and the US, portions of their respective plutonium and nuclear weapons stockpiles have been declared excess. In support of the US Department of Energy's 1998 decision to pursue immobilization of a portion of the remaining Pu in a titanate-based ceramic, the authors prepared nearly 200 radiation-damage test specimens of five Pu- and 238 Pu-ceramics containing 10 mass% Pu to determine the effects of irradiation from the contained Pu and U on the ceramic. The five Pu-ceramics were (1) phase-pure pyrochlore [ideally, Ca(U, Pu)Ti 2 O 7 ], (2) pyrochlore-rich baseline, (3) pyrochlore-rich baseline with impurities, (4) phase-pure zirconolite [ideally Ca(U, Pu)Ti 2 O 7 ], and (5) a zirconolite-rich baseline. These ceramics were prepared with either normal weapons-grade Pu, which is predominantly 239 Pu, or 238 Pu. The 238 Pu accelerates the radiation damage relative to the 239 Pu because of its much higher specific activity. The authors were unsuccessful in preparing phase-pure (Pu, U) brannerite, which is the third crystalline phase present in the baseline immobilization form. Since these materials will contain ∼10 mass% Pu and about 20 mass% U, radiation damage to the crystalline structure of these materials will occur overtime. As the material becomes damaged from the decay of the Pu and U, it is possible for the material to swell as both the alpha particles and recoiling atoms rupture chemical bonds within the solid. As the material changes density, cracking, perhaps in the form of microcracks, may occur. If cracking occurs in ceramic that has been placed in a repository, the calculated rate of radionuclide release if the can has corroded would increase proportionately to the increase in surface area. To investigate the effects of radiation damage on the five ceramics prepared, the authors are storing the specimens at 20, 125, and 250 C until the 238 Pu specimens become metamict and the damage saturates. They will

Internal dose assessment of 238U contaminated soils based on in-vitro gastrointestinal protocol

Science.gov (United States)

Perama, Yasmin Mohd Idris; Rashid, Nur Shahidah Abdul; Majid, Amran Ab.; Siong, Khoo Kok

2017-01-01

Human exposure to natural radioactive uranium has been a great interest as more industrial rapidly growing contributes to radiation risks. The aim of this case study was to determine the internal dose in humans incorporated with ingestion of 238U contaminated soils. A gastrointestinal analogue test was employed to simulate the human digestive tract. In-vitro approach via German DIN 19738 model was developed in order to estimate the internal exposure of 238U due to ingestion of different types of soils. Synthetic gastrointestinal fluids assay via in-vitro method were produced to determine the concentration of 238U in various soils using ICP-MS. Based on the results, concentration of 238U in BRIS, laterite, peat and alluvium soils were in ranged between (0.0061 ± 0.0057 - 0.0488 ± 0.0148) ppm and (0.0005 ± 0.0004 - 0.0046 ± 0.0007) ppm in gastric and gastrointestinal phase respectively. Types of soil compositions and pH medium were some of the factors that influence mobilization and solubility of 238U contaminanted soil into the digestive juices that resembles human gastrointestinal tract. For the purpose of internal dose assessment, the committed efective dose from 238U intake in soils ranged between 1.237 × 10-11 - 9.8993 × 10-11 Sv y-1 for gastric phase and 1.0184 × 10-12 - 9.3294 × 10-12 Sv y-1 for gastric-intestinal phase. The internal dose measurements from this study were much lower from the recommended values. Hence, ingestion of 238U contaminated soils would not be expected to pose major health risk to humans.

Delayed neutron yield from fast neutron induced fission of 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Piksaikin, V.M.; Kazakov, L.E.; Isaev, S.G.; Roshchenko, V.A.; Goverdovski, A.A.; Tertytchnyi, R.G.

2002-01-01

The measurements of the total delayed neutron yield from fast neutron induced fission of 238 U were made. The experimental method based on the periodic irradiation of the fissionable sample by neutrons from a suitable nuclear reaction had been employed. The preliminary results on the energy dependence of the total delayed neutron yield from fission of 238 U are obtained. According to the comparison of experimental data with our prediction based on correlation properties of delayed neutron characteristics, it is concluded that the value of the total delayed neutron yield near the threshold of (n,f) reaction is not a constant. (author)

The transport characteristics of "2"3"8U, "2"3"2Th, "2"2"6Ra, and "4"0K in the production cycle of phosphate rock

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jung, Yoon Hee; Lim, Jong Myoung; Ji, Young Yong; Chung, Kun Ho; Kang, Mun Ja

2017-01-01

Phosphate rock and its by-product are widely used in various industries to produce phosphoric acid, gypsum, gypsum board, and fertilizer. Owing to its high level of natural radioactive nuclides (e.g., 238U and 226Ra), the radiological safety of workers who work with phosphate rock should be systematically managed. In this study, 238U, 232Th, 226Ra, and 40K levels were measured to analyze the transport characteristics of these radionuclides in the production cycle of phosphate rock. Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence and gamma spectrometry were used to determine the activity of 238U, 232Th, 226Ra, and 40K. To evaluate the extent of secular disequilibrium, the analytical results were compared using statistical methods. Finally, the distribution of radioactivity across different stages of the phosphate rock production cycle was evaluated. The concentration ratios of 226Ra and 238U in phosphate rock were close to 1.0, while those found in gypsum and fertilizer were extremely different, reflecting disequilibrium after the chemical reaction process. The nuclide with the highest activity level in the production cycle of phosphate rock was 40K, and the median 40K activity was 8.972 Bq·g−1 and 1.496 Bq·g−1, respectively. For the 238U series, the activity of 238U and 226Ra was greatest in phosphate rock, and the distribution of activity values clearly showed the transport characteristics of the radionuclides, both for the byproducts of the decay sequences and for their final products. Although the activity of 40K in k-related fertilizer was relatively high, it made a relatively low contribution to the total radiological effect. However, the activity levels of 226Ra and 238U in phosphate rock were found to be relatively high, near the upper end of the acceptable limits. Therefore, it is necessary to systematically manage the radiological safety of workers engaged in phosphate rock processing

Isotope shift of 234U, 236U, 238U in U I

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gagne, J.M.; Nguyen Van, S.; Saint-Dizier, J.P.; Pianarosa, P.

1976-01-01

New and very accurate data of isotope shifts and relative isotope shifts in 234 U, 236 U, 238 U are presented. The invariance of the relative isotope shift, for the transitions we have investigated, supports the hypothesis that the so called specific mass effect is negligible in uranium

Photofission product yields of {sup 238}U and {sup 239}Pu with 22-MeV bremsstrahlung

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Wen, Xianfei; Yang, Haori, E-mail: haori.yang@oregonstate.edu

2016-06-11

In homeland security and nuclear safeguards applications, non-destructive techniques to identify and quantify special nuclear materials are in great demand. Although nuclear materials naturally emit characteristic radiation (e.g. neutrons, γ-rays), their intensity and energy are normally low. Furthermore, such radiation could be intentionally shielded with ease or buried in high-level background. Active interrogation techniques based on photofission have been identified as effective assay approaches to address this issue. In designing such assay systems, nuclear data, like photofission product yields, plays a crucial role. Although fission yields for neutron-induced reactions have been well studied and readily available in various nuclear databases, data on photofission product yields is rather scarce. This poses a great challenge to the application of photofission techniques. In this work, short-lived high-energy delayed γ-rays from photofission of {sup 238}U were measured in between linac pulses. In addition, a list-mode system was developed to measure relatively long-lived delayed γ-rays from photofission of {sup 238}U and {sup 239}Pu after the irradiation. Time and energy information of each γ-ray event were simultaneously recorded by this system. Cumulative photofission product yields were then determined using the measured delayed γ-ray spectra.

Uranium contents and 234U/238U activity ratios of modern and fossil marine bivalle molluscan shells

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mitsuda, Hiroshi

1984-01-01

Uranium contents and 234 U/ 238 U activity ratios in modern and fossil marine bivalle molluscan shells were measured by alpha-spectrometry. Uranium contents and 234 U/ 238 U activity ratios in modern shells were averaged to be 0.266 (dpm/g), and 1.18, respectively and those in fossil shells were averaged to be 0.747 (dpm/g), and 1.19, respectivily. Uranium contents in fossil shells were obviously higher than those in modern shells. It can be explained by the addition of uranium to shell during the deposition. In fossil shells, 234 U/ 238 U activity ratio decreases as 238 U content increases the same tendency is not found in modern shells. The author proposed a mechanism of selective loss of 238 U from the fossil shells for the explanation of this tendency. The height activity ratio of 234 U/ 238 U measured on the fossil shells than that measured on the modern shells, also support the selective loss of 238 U from the fossil shells. (author)

The Effect of Early Diagenesis on the 238U/235U Ratio of Platform Carbonates.

Science.gov (United States)

Tissot, F.; Chen, C.; Go, B. M.; Naziemiec, M.; Healy, G.; Swart, P. K.; Dauphas, N.

2017-12-01

In the past 15 years, the so-called non-traditional stable isotopes systems (e.g., Mg, Fe, Mo, U) have emerged as powerful tracers of both high-T and low-T geochemical processes (e.g., [1]). Of particular interest for paleoredox studies is the ratio of "stable" isotopes of U (238U/235U), which has the potential to track the global extent of oceanic anoxia (e.g., [2, 3]). Indeed, in the modern ocean, U exists in two main oxidation states, soluble U6+ and insoluble U4+, and has a mean residence time of 400 kyr ([4]), much longer than the global ocean mixing time (1-2 kyr). As such the salinity-normalized ocean is homogeneous with regards to both U concentrations and isotopes (δ238USW = -0.392±0.005 ‰, [2]). The value of δ238USW at any given time is therefore the balance between U input to the ocean, mainly from rivers, and U removal, mostly into biogenic carbonates, anoxic/euxinic sediments and suboxic/hypoxic sediments (e.g., [2, 5]). Because the 238U/235U ratio of the past ocean cannot be measured directly, it has to be estimated from the measurement of the 238U/235U ratio of a sedimentary rock and assuming a constant fractionation factor. Carbonates appear as a promising record since they span most of Earth's history, and the δ238U values of modern primary carbonate precipitates and well-preserved fossil aragonitic coral up to 600 ka are indistinguishable from that of seawater (e.g., [2, 6, 7]). Yet, the effect of secondary processes on the δ238U values of non-coral carbonates, which represent the bulk of the rock record, has only been studied in a handful of shallow samples (down to 40cm, [6]) and remains poorly understood. To investigate the effect of early diagenesis on the 238U/235U ratio of carbonates on the 30kyr to 1Myr timescale, we measured δ13C, δ18O, and δ238U in samples from a 220m long drill core from the Bahamas carbonate platform. In order to separate lattice bound U from secondary U we developed a leaching protocol applicable to carbonate

Present status of radiochemical double β decay study (238U)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chevallier, A.; Chevallier, J.; Escoubes, B.; Schulz, N.; Sens, J.C.; Madic, C.; Maillard, C.

1989-01-01

The reasons for which the 238 U is a suitable candidate for the β β decay processes are explained. The strategy adopted for the radiochemical separation of the 234 U is given. A chemical system based on extraction chromatography is applied. The Pu IV breakthrough curves obtained at 40C during 238 Pu/ 238 U separation cycles are presented. A short description of the chromatographic facility is given. The solution adopted for the low background α spectrometer is explained

Sub-barrier photofission of 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bhandari, B.S.

Photofission cross section of 238 U below threshold have been calculated using a double humped potential barrier parameterized by smoothly joining four parabolas, and a coulomb potential at and beyond the scission point. Relative strength in the fission channel has been calculated and an attempt has been made to interpret the apparent resonance structures observed recently in photofission experiments of 238 U as excited states of the fission isomer. A set of parameters for a double humped barrier are found which are consistent with known spontaneous fission and isomeric fission half lives. In addition to reproducing satisfactorily the observed resonance structure near threshold, the calculation also predicts several low energy resonances in the cross sections [pt

Multimode approximation for {sup 238}U photofission at intermediate energies

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Demekhina, N. A., E-mail: demekhina@lnr.jinr.ru [Yerevan Physics Institute (Armenia); Karapetyan, G. S. [Yerevan State University (Armenia)

2008-01-15

The yields of products originating from {sup 238}U photofission are measured at the bremsstrahlung endpoint energies of 50 and 3500 MeV. Charge and mass distributions of fission fragments are obtained. Symmetric and asymmetric channels in {sup 238}U photofission are singled out on the basis of the model of multimode fission. This decomposition makes it possible to estimate the contributions of various fission components and to calculate the fissilities of {sup 238}U in the photon-energy regions under study.

235U and 238U (n,xn gamma) cross-sections

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bacquias, A.; Dessagne, Ph.; Kerveno, M.; Rudolf, G.; Thiry, J.C.; Borcea, C.; Negret, A.L.; Drohe, J.C.; Nankov, N.; Nyman, M.; Plompen, A.; Rouki, C.; Stanoiu, M.

2014-01-01

The (n,n') and (n,2n) are important processes in the energy domain of fission neutrons, but the cross-sections suffer from large uncertainties, not compatible with the objectives fixed for future and advanced nuclear reactors. This paper presents our experimental effort to improve 235 U and 238 U (n,xnγ) cross-section data. The experiments were performed at the GELINA facility (Belgium), which provides a pulsed (800 Hz) neutron beam covering a wide energy spectrum (from a few eV to about 20 MeV). The GRAPhEME set-up is designed for prompt gamma spectroscopy and time-of-flight measurement. The analysis methods are presented. Already published results on 235 U are shown, as well as results on 238 U. The interpretation and discussion rely on the comparison with TALYS and EMPIRE predictions. (authors)

222Rn content and 234U/238U activity ratio in groundwaters

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Olguin, M.T.; Segovia, N.; Ordonez, E.; Iturbe, J.L.; Bulbulian, S.; Carrillo, J.

1990-01-01

Geochemical radioanalytical studies of ground water were perfomed in the valleys of Villa de Reyes and San Luis Potosi, Mexico. The experiments were designed to measure radon and uranium content and 234 U/ 238 U activity ratio in ground water samples taken from wells in these sites and at the Nuclear Center of Salazar, Mexico. 222 Rn content varied depending on the sample source, reaching a maximum value of 235 pCi/l; uranium concentration results were less than 1 μg/l and 234 U/ 238 U activity ratios were close to equilibrium. (author) 9 refs.; 1 fig.; 1 tab

The inflow of 234U and 238U from the River Odra drainage basin to the Baltic Sea

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Bogdan Skwarzec

2010-12-01

Full Text Available In this study the activity of uranium isotopes 234U and 238U in Odra river water samples, collected from October 2003 to July2004, was measured using alpha spectrometry. The uranium concentrations were different in each of the seasons analysed; the lowest values were recorded in summer. In all seasons, uranium concentrations were the highest in Bystrzyca river waters (from 27.81 ± 0.29Bq m-3 of 234U and 17.82 ± 0.23 Bq m-3 of 238U in spring to 194.76 ± 3.43 Bq m-3 of 234U and 134.88 ± 2.85 Bq m-3 of 238U in summer. The lowest concentrations were noted in the Mała Panew (from 1.33 ± 0.02 Bq m-3 of 234U and 1.06 ± 0.02 Bq m-3 of 238U in spring to 3.52 ± 0.05 Bq m-3 of 234U and 2.59± 0.04 Bq m-3 of 238U in autumn. The uranium radionuclides 234U and 238U in the water samples were not in radioactive equilibrium. The 234U / 238U activity ratios were the highest in Odra water samples collected at Głogów (1.84 in autumn, and the lowest in water from the Noteć (1.03 in winter and spring. The 234U / 238U activity ratio decreases along the main stream of the Odra, owing to changes in the salinity of the river's waters. Annually, 8.19 tons of uranium (126.29 G Bq of 234U and 100.80 G Bq of 238U flow into the Szczecin Lagoon with Odra river waters.

Dissolution behaviour of 238U, 234U and 230Th deposited on filters from personal dosemeters

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Beckova, V.; Malatova, I.

2008-01-01

Kinetics of dissolution of 238 U, 234 U and 230 Th dust deposited on filters from personal alpha dosemeters was studied by means of a 26-d in vitro dissolution test with a serum ultra-filtrate simulant. Dosemeters had been used by miners at the uranium mine 'Dolni Rozinka' at Rozna, Czech Republic. The sampling flow-rate as declared by the producer is 4 l h -1 and the sampling period is typically 1 month. Studied filters contained 125 ± 6 mBq 238 U in equilibrium with 234 U and 230 Th; no 232 Th series nuclides were found. Half-time of rapid dissolution of 1.4 d for 238 U and 234 U and slow dissolution half-times of 173 and 116 d were found for 238 U and 234 U, respectively. No detectable dissolution of 230 Th was found. (authors)

226Ra/238U disequilibrium in an upland organic soil exhibiting elevated natural radioactivity

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dowdall, M.; O'Dea, J.

2002-01-01

This paper presents the results of a study into the anomalous 226 Ra/ 238 U disequilibrium ( 226 Ra/ 238 U of 0.5-9) exhibited by an upland organic soil in Co. Donegal, Ireland. Radiochemical speciation of 226 Ra, 238 U and 228 Ra indicates that in this organic soil the high 226 Ra/ 238 U ratio is due to loss of 238 U relative to 226 Ra via oxidation and mobilisation of 238 U in the upper layers of the soil and subsequent loss in solution. At the lower, more reducing depths of the soil profile, 238 U and 226 Ra are essentially in equilibrium. Loss of 238 U appears to occur primarily from the easily oxidised organic and iron oxide fractions of the soil, samples exhibiting high 226 Ra/ 238 U ratios displaying significantly lower 238 U levels in these fractions than samples whose ratio is below the average value for the soil of the valley. Selective enrichment of 226 Ra by plants or preferential leaching of 226 Ra from the underlying rock is not supported by the results of this study

The metrological activity determination of 238 U and 230 Th by gamma spectrometry to industrial fuel-cycle application

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Almeida M, M.C. de; Delgado, J.U.; Poledna, R.

2006-01-01

This work describes the difficulty for determining the activity of 238 U and 230 Th using gamma spectrometry due to the low gamma-ray emission probabilities of 92 and 67 keV, and, mainly, the associated high uncertainties about 13 and 11%, respectively. 230 Th is a 238 U daughter and it is product from uranium mills and refineries. 230 Th decays to 226 Ra and this decay has to be measured because these radionuclides are not in secular equilibrium with their daughter products, besides the gamma-energies have high uncertainties in the emission probabilities. These radionuclides, mostly 238 U, are important in the nuclear fuel-cycle, since the mining of uranium ore, where the nominal isotopic content of natural uranium is 99.27% of 238 U, until the irradiated fuel reprocessing, where this isotope, a fertile material, is recovered to be used again. The uranium and thorium are considered safeguarded nuclear materials and the metrology tries to calibrate and standardize these materials to improve the activity determination techniques applied in different fuel-cycle scopes. The essential characteristics of the safeguarded materials are low gamma energies (less than 100 keV) and emission probabilities but with high uncertainties. In this way, the metrology can contribute to homeland security defense against illicit nuclear trafficking with the identification and quantification of the safeguarded radionuclides such as uranium and thorium, using specific gamma window energy and high resolution planar or coaxial germanium detector. The efficiency curve is obtained from the reference source spectrum considering the photopeak areas corresponding the standard activities. This curve depends on radiation energy, sample geometry, photon attenuation (sample absorption and material absorption between sample-detector), dead time and sample-detector position. The metrological activity determinations of 238 U solid sources, and of 230 Th, in solution (5 ml flask), were performed using

Dissolution behaviour of 238U, 234U and 230Th deposited on filters from personal dosemeters.

Science.gov (United States)

Becková, Vera; Malátová, Irena

2008-01-01

Kinetics of dissolution of (238)U, (234)U and (230)Th dust deposited on filters from personal alpha dosemeters was studied by means of a 26-d in vitro dissolution test with a serum ultrafiltrate simulant. Dosemeters had been used by miners at the uranium mine 'Dolní Rozínka' at Rozná, Czech Republic. The sampling flow-rate as declared by the producer is 4 l h(-1) and the sampling period is typically 1 month. Studied filters contained 125 +/- 6 mBq (238)U in equilibrium with (234)U and (230)Th; no (232)Th series nuclides were found. Half-time of rapid dissolution of 1.4 d for (238)U and (234)U and slow dissolution half-times of 173 and 116 d were found for (238)U and (234)U, respectively. No detectable dissolution of (230)Th was found.

Phosphate fertilizer influence on 238 U content in vegetables

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lauria D, C.; Rodrigues S, J.I.; Ribeiro, F.C.A.

2006-01-01

Uranium is a naturally radioactive element, which is usually found in soils, superficial and ground water, vegetables and animals. After ingestion by human beings, most is excreted in few days by feces and urine, without reaching the bloodstream. However, a small part circulates through the body, being accumulated in the soft tissues, as kidneys. A minor fraction can remain in bones per some years, being able through the radioactive decay to irradiate adjacent tissues. Phosphate fertilizers used in conventional crop management can present variable amounts of uranium. In accordance with origin and use, the fertilizer can raise the content of this element in vegetables, and consequently to increase the human exposure for radiation due the consumption of vegetables. It is estimated that the use of phosphate fertilizer has at least doubled the prolonged exposure of humans from ingestion of food. This work aims to evaluate the contribution of organic and chemical fertilizer on the concentration of 238 U in vegetable samples. An experiment with black beans (a very important vegetable for Brazilian people) was conducted in a field which soil has never been fertilized with any sort of fertilizer, located near to the Rio de Janeiro city. On the organic management, bovine manure was used, while on conventional management urea, potassium chloride and superphosphate were used. Simultaneously, black bean samples from not fertilized management were collected. In addition, lettuce and carrot samples from organic and conventional managements were collected in Nova Friburgo farms (the most important vegetable supplier of Rio de Janeiro city market). The analyses of 238 U have been carried out by conventional fluorimetric method. The geometric mean of 238 U concentrations in the carrot and lettuce samples from conventional management were similar with those from organic management, while for beans the conventional samples had higher values than those ones found in organic management

238U + n resolved resonance energies

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Olsen, D.K.; de Saussure, G.; Perez, R.B.; Difilippo, F.C.; Ingle, R.W.

1978-01-01

Neutron transmission measurements from 100 eV to 170 keV at 150 m through four 238 U samples are reported. The energy calibration is described, and the resultant 233 U resolved resonance energies are found to be intermediate between those from other workers. In addition, some energies for sharp resonances in 23 Na, 27 Al, 32 S, and 206 Pb are given

238U-series radionuclides in Finnish groundwater-based drinking water and effective doses

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vesterbacka, P.

2005-09-01

The thesis deals with the occurrence of 238 U-series radionuclides and particle-bound 210 Pb and 210 Po in Finnish groundwater-based drinking water, methods used for removing 234 U, 238 U, 210 Pb and 210 Po, and the annual effective doses caused by 238 U-series radionuclides in drinking water. In order to reduce radiation exposure and avoid high doses, it is important to examine the activity levels of natural radionuclides in groundwater. In this work, the activity concentrations of radon ( 222 Rn), radium ( 226 Ra), uranium ( 238 U and 234 U), lead ( 210 Pb) and polonium ( 210 Po) were determined from 472 private wells, which were selected randomly from across Finland. On the basis of the results, the activity concentrations in groundwater and the radiation exposure from drinking water of people living outside the public water supply in Finland was specified. The efficiency of 238 U, 234 U, 210 Pb and 210 Po removal from drinking water was examined at ten private homes. In order to obtain accurate results and correct estimates of effective doses, attention was paid to the sampling of 222 Rn and 210 Pb, and the determination of 210 Pb. The results revealed that the median activity concentrations of natural radionuclides were as much as ten times higher in drilled wells than in wells dug in soil. The average activity concentration of 222 Rn in drilled wells was 460 Bq/l and in dug wells 50 Bq/l. The highest activity concentrations were found in Southern Finland. In addition, occasional high activity concentrations were found all over Finland. The average activity concentrations of 234 U and 238 U in drilled wells were 0.35 and 0.26 Bq/l and in dug wells 0.020 and 0.015 Bq/l, respectively. The spatial distribution of 234 U, 238 U, 210 Pb and 210 Po was essentially similar to that of 222 Rn. In contrast to other natural radionuclides, the highest 226 Ra activity concentrations were found in coastal areas, since drilled well water near the sea has a higher salinity

Determination of 238U in marine organisms by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ishii, Toshiaki; Nakahara, Motokazu; Matsuba, Mitsue; Ishikawa, Masafumi

1991-01-01

Determination of 238 U in fifty-five species of marine organisms was carried out by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry which showed some advantages such as high sensitivity, wide dynamic range and small interferences from matrices for the analysis of high mass elements. The concentrations of 238 U in soft tissues of marine animals ranged from 0.076 to 5000 ng/g wet wt. Especially, the branchial heart of cephalopod molluscs showed the specific accumulation of 238 U. The concentration factor of the branchial heart of Octopus vulgaris, which indicated the highest value, was calculated to be about 10 3 by comparing it with the concentration of 238 U (3.2±0.2 ng/ml) in coastal seawaters of Japan. The concentrations of 238 U in hard tissues of marine invertebrates were similar to those in soft tissues. In contrast, hard tissues like bone, scale, fin, etc. of fishes showed much higher concentrations of 238 U than soft tissues like muscle and liver. The concentrations of 238 U of twenty species of algae ranged from 10 to 3700 ng/g dry wt. (author)

Uranium 234U and 238U isotopes in the southern Baltic environment

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Borylo, A.; Skwarzec, B.

2002-01-01

The concentration and distribution of uranium in water and sediment of selected basins of the southern Baltic Sea have been analysed. It was observed that the concentration of uranium in sediments increases with core depth. This is probably connected to diffusion processes from sediments to water through interstitial water where uranium concentration is much higher than in bottom water. The measurements of 234 U/ 238 U activity ratios indicate that sedimentation of terrigenic material and transport through Vistula river are the major sources of uranium in sediments of the southern Baltic Sea. Estimation of the 234 U/ 238 U ratios in reduction areas of the Baltic Deep and the Bornholm Deep suggest that the processes of reduction of U(VI) to U(IV) and of removal of authogenic uranium from seawater to sediments do not play major roles in the Gdansk Deep. (author)

238U (n,f) measurements below 30 keV

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Slovacek, R.E.; Cramer, D.S.; Bean, E.B.; Hockenbury, R.W.; Valentine, J.R.; Block, R.C.

1975-01-01

The 238 U (n,f) cross section has been measured from 3 eV to about 30 keV with the lead slowing down spectrometer at the RPI Linac. Four fission ionization chambers containing a total of about 0.8 gm of 238 U (4.1 ppm 235 U) were used for the measurements. The fission widths of the 6.67, 20.9, and the 36.8 eV resonances were measured as (10 +- 1), (58 +- 9), and (12 +- 2) nanoelectron-volts respectively. The fission cross section integrated over the two subthreshold groups at 720 and 1210 eV and the average fission cross section from 10 to 30 keV are in agreement with a previous time of flight measurement. The fission width at 6.67 eV is 20 times smaller than an upper limit set by the only reported measurement in this energy region; the fission widths obtained in the present investigation are consistent with the (30 +- 50) nanoelectronvolt average width previously obtained for the resonances between 37 and 327 eV in a time of flight measurement using a nuclear device. From the measured fission widths, the 238 U thermal fission cross section was determined to be 2.7 +- 0.3 μ barns. The resonance fission integral was also obtained from the data as 1.33 +- 0.15 mbarns for 238 U. (4 figures, 4 tables) (U.S.)

Neutron inelastic-scattering cross sections of 232Th, 233U, 235U, 238U, 239Pu and 240Pu

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Smith, A.B.; Guenther, P.T.

1982-01-01

Differential-neutron-emission cross sections of 232 Th, 233 U, 235 U, 238 U, 239 Pu and 240 Pu are measured between approx. = 1.0 and 3.5 MeV with the angle and magnitude detail needed to provide angle-integrated emission cross sections to approx. 232 Th, 233 U, 235 U and 238 U inelastic-scattering values, poor agreement is observed for 240 Pu, and a serious discrepancy exists in the case of 239 Pu

The metrological activity determination of {sup 238} U and {sup 230} Th by gamma spectrometry to industrial fuel-cycle application

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Almeida M, M.C. de; Delgado, J.U.; Poledna, R. [Instituto de Radioprotecao e Dosimetria- IRD/SEMRA, CNEN, Av. Salvador Allende s/n, Recreio, CEP 22780-160, Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)]. e-mail: marcandida@yahoo.com.br

2006-07-01

This work describes the difficulty for determining the activity of {sup 238} U and {sup 230} Th using gamma spectrometry due to the low gamma-ray emission probabilities of 92 and 67 keV, and, mainly, the associated high uncertainties about 13 and 11%, respectively. {sup 230} Th is a {sup 238} U daughter and it is product from uranium mills and refineries. {sup 230} Th decays to {sup 226} Ra and this decay has to be measured because these radionuclides are not in secular equilibrium with their daughter products, besides the gamma-energies have high uncertainties in the emission probabilities. These radionuclides, mostly {sup 238} U, are important in the nuclear fuel-cycle, since the mining of uranium ore, where the nominal isotopic content of natural uranium is 99.27% of {sup 238} U, until the irradiated fuel reprocessing, where this isotope, a fertile material, is recovered to be used again. The uranium and thorium are considered safeguarded nuclear materials and the metrology tries to calibrate and standardize these materials to improve the activity determination techniques applied in different fuel-cycle scopes. The essential characteristics of the safeguarded materials are low gamma energies (less than 100 keV) and emission probabilities but with high uncertainties. In this way, the metrology can contribute to homeland security defense against illicit nuclear trafficking with the identification and quantification of the safeguarded radionuclides such as uranium and thorium, using specific gamma window energy and high resolution planar or coaxial germanium detector. The efficiency curve is obtained from the reference source spectrum considering the photopeak areas corresponding the standard activities. This curve depends on radiation energy, sample geometry, photon attenuation (sample absorption and material absorption between sample-detector), dead time and sample-detector position. The metrological activity determinations of {sup 238} U solid sources, and of

Determination of sup 238 U in marine organisms by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Yudo ketsugo plasma shitsuryo bunsekiho ni yoru kaiyo seibutsuchu no sup 238 U no teiryo

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ishii, T.; Nakahara, M; Matsuda, M.; Ishikawa, M. (National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Ibaraki (Japan))

1991-05-25

Since the {sup 238} U concentration in seawater is about 3ng/ml at the element level and the activity concentration is 40 {mu} Bq/ml which are considerably higher that those of other {alpha} radioactive materials, it is necessary to study the concentration levels of many marine organisms. After confirming that the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry as a new high sensitive analysis for multi-elements is effective to analyze heavy elements such as rare earth elements or uranium, etc., this method was applied to determine {sup 238} U in 55 species of marine organism. The {sup 238} U concentration in soft tissues of marine animal ranged from 0.076 to 5000ng/g wet weight and large difference of concentration was observed depending on the kind of animal and the tissue. Especially, the branchial heart of cephalopod molluscs showed the specific accumulation of {sup 238} U. The concentration factor of branchial heart of Octopus vulgaris which showed the highest value was calculated to be about 10 {sup 3} by comparing it with the concentration of {sup 238} U in Japanese coastal waterseas. The concentration of {sup 238} U in 20 species of algae ranged from 10 to 3700ng/g dry weight. 11 refs., 2 figs., 9 tabs.

Beta decay heat following U-235, U-238 and Pu-239 neutron fission

Science.gov (United States)

Li, Shengjie

1997-09-01

This is an experimental study of beta-particle decay heat from 235U, 239Pu and 238U aggregate fission products over delay times 0.4-40,000 seconds. The experimental results below 2s for 235U and 239Pu, and below 20s for 238U, are the first such results reported. The experiments were conducted at the UMASS Lowell 5.5-MV Van de Graaff accelerator and 1-MW swimming-pool research reactor. Thermalized neutrons from the 7Li(p,n)7Be reaction induced fission in 238U and 239Pu, and fast neutrons produced in the reactor initiated fission in 238U. A helium-jet/tape-transport system rapidly transferred fission fragments from a fission chamber to a low background counting area. Delay times after fission were selected by varying the tape speed or the position of the spray point relative to the beta spectrometer that employed a thin-scintillator-disk gating technique to separate beta-particles from accompanying gamma-rays. Beta and gamma sources were both used in energy calibration. Based on low-energy(energies 0-10 MeV. Measured beta spectra were unfolded for their energy distributions by the program FERD, and then compared to other measurements and summation calculations based on ENDF/B-VI fission-product data performed on the LANL Cray computer. Measurements of the beta activity as a function of decay time furnished a relative normalization. Results for the beta decay heat are presented and compared with other experimental data and the summation calculations.

IAEA CIELO Evaluation of Neutron-induced Reactions on 235U and 238U Targets

Science.gov (United States)

Capote, R.; Trkov, A.; Sin, M.; Pigni, M. T.; Pronyaev, V. G.; Balibrea, J.; Bernard, D.; Cano-Ott, D.; Danon, Y.; Daskalakis, A.; Goričanec, T.; Herman, M. W.; Kiedrowski, B.; Kopecky, S.; Mendoza, E.; Neudecker, D.; Leal, L.; Noguere, G.; Schillebeeckx, P.; Sirakov, I.; Soukhovitskii, E. S.; Stetcu, I.; Talou, P.

2018-02-01

Evaluations of nuclear reaction data for the major uranium isotopes 238U and 235U were performed within the scope of the CIELO Project on the initiative of the OECD/NEA Data Bank under Working Party on Evaluation Co-operation (WPEC) Subgroup 40 coordinated by the IAEA Nuclear Data Section. Both the mean values and covariances are evaluated from 10-5 eV up to 30 MeV. The resonance parameters of 238U and 235U were re-evaluated with the addition of newly available data to the existing experimental database. The evaluations in the fast neutron range are based on nuclear model calculations with the code EMPIRE-3.2 Malta above the resonance range up to 30 MeV. 235U(n,f), 238U(n,f), and 238U(n,γ) cross sections and 235U(nth,f) prompt fission neutron spectrum (PFNS) were evaluated within the Neutron Standards project and are representative of the experimental state-of-the-art measurements. The Standards cross sections were matched in model calculations as closely as possible to guarantee a good predictive power for cross sections of competing neutron scattering channels. 235U(n,γ) cross section includes fluctuations observed in recent experiments. 235U(n,f) PFNS for incident neutron energies from 500 keV to 20 MeV were measured at Los Alamos Chi-Nu facility and re-evaluated using all available experimental data. While respecting the measured differential data, several compensating errors in previous evaluations were identified and removed so that the performance in integral benchmarks was restored or improved. Covariance matrices for 235U and 238U cross sections, angular distributions, spectra and neutron multiplicities were evaluated using the GANDR system that combines experimental data with model uncertainties. Unrecognized systematic uncertainties were considered in the uncertainty quantification for fission and capture cross sections above the thermal range, and for neutron multiplicities. Evaluated files were extensively benchmarked to ensure good performance in

234U/238U activity ratio in groundwater - an indicator of past hydrogeological processes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rasilainen, K.; Suksi, J.; Marcos, N.; Nordman, H.

2005-01-01

In this report we describe the long-term behaviour of the uranium isotopes, U-234 and U-238 in groundwater systems. U is a redox sensitive element what for its behaviour is largely controlled by changes in the environmental conditions. A striking feature in U isotope geochemistry is seemingly different behaviour of U-238 and U-234. U isotopes fractionate at the rock-groundwater interface depending on chemical and radiological factors. Changes of the redox conditions in groundwater may thus affect the behaviour of U and its isotopes resulting in variable U concentration and U-234/U-238 activity ratios (AR). We examined the formation of ARs in different groundwater types from a geochemical and a physical/radiological point of view. It was envisaged that AR in groundwater is the consequence of radiological, chemical and hydrological processes. Groundwater condition (redox, flow, etc.) play a very important role in controlling the mass flow of U isotopes. Quantitative α-recoil modelling showed that α-recoil induced flux can be considered insignificant in cases of high-flow. This was an important finding because the exclusion of direct a-recoil means that it is groundwater chemistry and its variations which controls the U-234 mass flow and the formation of AR. Therefore, AR values could be used more confidently to indicate past redox changes and possibly flow paths. (orig.)

Mass spectrometric 230Th-234U-238U dating of the Devils Hole calcite vein

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ludwig, K.R.; Simmons, K.R.; Szabo, B.J.; Riggs, A.C.; Winograd, I.J.; Landwehr, J.M.; Hoffman, R.J.

1992-01-01

The Devils Hole calcite vein contains a long-term climatic record, but requires accurate chronologic control for its interpretation. Mass-spectrometric U-series ages for samples from core DH-11 yielding 230 Th ages with precisions ranging from less than 1,000 years (2σ) for samples younger than ∼140 ka (thousands of years ago) to less than 50,000 years for the oldest samples (∼566 ka). The 234 U/ 238 U ages could be determined to a precision of ∼20,000 years for all ages. Calcite accumulated continuously from 566 ka until ∼60 ka at an average rate of 0.7 millimeter per 10 3 years. The precise agreement between replicate analyses and the concordance of the 230 Th/ 238 U and 234 U/ 238 U ages for the oldest samples indicate that the DH-11 samples were closed systems and validate the dating technique in general

Performance evaluation of indigenous thermal ionization mass spectrometer for determination of 235U/238U atom ratios

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Alamelu, D.; Parab, A.R.; Sasi Bhushan, K.; Shah, Raju V.; Jagdish Kumar, S.; Rao, Radhika M.; Aggarwal, S.K.; Bhatia, R.K.; Yadav, V.K.; Sharma, Madhavi P.; Tulsyan, Puneet; Chavda, Pradip; Sriniwasan, P.

2014-07-01

A magnetic sector based Thermal Ionization Mass Spectrometer (TIMS) designed and developed at Technical Physics Division, B.A.R.C., was evaluated for its performance for the determination of 235 U/ 238 U atom ratios in uranium samples. This consisted of evaluating the precision and accuracy on the 235 U/ 238 U atom ratios in various isotopic reference materials as well as indigenously generated uranium samples. The results obtained by the indigenous TIMS were also compared with those obtained using a commercially available TIMS system. The internal and external precision were found to be around 0.1% for determining 235 U/ 238 U atom ratios close to those of natural uranium ( i.e. 0.00730). (author)

Phosphate fertilizer influence on {sup 238} U content in vegetables

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lauria D, C.; Rodrigues S, J.I. [Instituto de Radioprotecao e Dosimetria (IRD/CNEN), Av. Salvador Allende s/n, Rio de Janeiro-RJ (Brazil); Ribeiro, F.C.A. [Centro Regional de Ciencias Nucleares (CRCN/CNEN) Av. Prof. Luiz Freire 200 Cidade Universitaria Recife-PE (Brazil)]. e-mail: dejanira@ird.gov.br

2006-07-01

Uranium is a naturally radioactive element, which is usually found in soils, superficial and ground water, vegetables and animals. After ingestion by human beings, most is excreted in few days by feces and urine, without reaching the bloodstream. However, a small part circulates through the body, being accumulated in the soft tissues, as kidneys. A minor fraction can remain in bones per some years, being able through the radioactive decay to irradiate adjacent tissues. Phosphate fertilizers used in conventional crop management can present variable amounts of uranium. In accordance with origin and use, the fertilizer can raise the content of this element in vegetables, and consequently to increase the human exposure for radiation due the consumption of vegetables. It is estimated that the use of phosphate fertilizer has at least doubled the prolonged exposure of humans from ingestion of food. This work aims to evaluate the contribution of organic and chemical fertilizer on the concentration of {sup 238} U in vegetable samples. An experiment with black beans (a very important vegetable for Brazilian people) was conducted in a field which soil has never been fertilized with any sort of fertilizer, located near to the Rio de Janeiro city. On the organic management, bovine manure was used, while on conventional management urea, potassium chloride and superphosphate were used. Simultaneously, black bean samples from not fertilized management were collected. In addition, lettuce and carrot samples from organic and conventional managements were collected in Nova Friburgo farms (the most important vegetable supplier of Rio de Janeiro city market). The analyses of {sup 238} U have been carried out by conventional fluorimetric method. The geometric mean of {sup 238} U concentrations in the carrot and lettuce samples from conventional management were similar with those from organic management, while for beans the conventional samples had higher values than those ones found in

Light nuclides observed in the fission and fragmentation of 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ricciardi, M.V.; Schmidt, K.H.; Benlliure, J.

2001-05-01

Light nuclides produced in collisions of 1 A.GeV 238 U with protons and titanium have been fully identified with a high-resolution forward magnetic spectrometer, the fragment separator (FRS), at GSI, and for each nuclide an extremely precise determination of the velocity has been performed. The so-obtained information on the velocity shows that the very asymmetric fission of uranium, in the 238 U + p reaction, produces neutron-rich isotopes of elements down to around charge 10. New important features of the fragmentation of 238 U, concerning the velocity and the N/Z-ratio of these light fragments, and a peculiar even-odd structure in N=Z nuclei, have also been observed. (orig.)

238U photonuclear studies with 5-10 MeV photons

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hawkes, N.P.

1986-02-01

The 238 U photofission and photoneutron cross sections, and the mean number -ν of prompt neutrons per fission, have been measured between 5 and 10 MeV. The experiment was carried out using bremsstrahlung from the electron linear accelerator HELIOS at Harwell. Neutrons from (γ,f) and (γ,n) reactions on 238 U were detected, and neutron multiplicity distributions recorded. Photoneutron events were separated from photofission events by means of their different multiplicities. (author)

Measurement of activity concentrations of {sup 40}K, 2{sup 32T}h and {sup 238}U in TSP aerosols and the associated inhalation annual effective radiation dose to the public in Gosan site, Jeju

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Han, Chung Hun; Park, Youn Hyun; Park, Jae Woo [Jeju National University, Jeju (Korea, Republic of)

2016-10-15

Gamma radiation emitted from naturally occurring radioisotopes, such as 40K and the radionuclides from the {sup 232}Th and {sup 238}U series and their decay products, which exist at trace levels in all ground formations, represents the main external source of irradiation to the human body. The objective of the current study is to determine the activity concentrations of 40K, {sup 232}Th and {sup 238}U in airborne TSP and the associated internal radiation dose to the public due to inhalation in Gosan site, Jeju Island, Korea. The atmospheric total suspended particulates (TSP) aerosols were collected at Gosan site of Jeju Island, which is one of the background sites of Korea, during January to April 2013. This study analyzed using ICP-DRC-MS the concentrations of potassium, uranium and thorium, and evaluated the annual effective dose by breathing from the results. The correlations between the studied natural isotopes is a good positive correlation between {sup 232}Th and {sup 238}U, supporting the conclusion that they originated from the same source, mostly the crust. The backward trajectory analysis has confirmed that the 40K, {sup 238}U and {sup 232}Th are delivered as the air masses have moved from the China continent. The inhalation annual effective radiation dose (default mode F) to the public due to natural isotopes of the airborne TSP was in the range 16.195 - 77.051 nSv/y, depending on the age group. Jeju Island with less pollution source and low population density is also one of the best places as a background area in Asia.

Relationship between kidney burden and radiation dose from chronic ingestion of U: Implications for radiation standards for the public

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kocher, D.C.

1989-01-01

Metabolic models for U in adults recommended by Wrenn et al. (1985) and the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP 1979a) were used to study the relationship between kidney burden and radiation dose from chronic ingestion of soluble 238U or natural U and whether current radiation standards for the public provide adequate protection against chemical toxicity from U in the kidney. We assumed that the threshold concentration for chemical toxicity is 1 microgram of U g-1 of kidney and that a safety factor of 10 should be applied in limiting kidney burdens for maximally exposed individuals in the general public. We found that a limit on annual effective dose equivalent of 1 mSv (0.1 rem) for chronic exposures of the public from all sources, as recommended by the ICRP (1985) and the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP 1987), corresponds to concentrations of U in the kidney from chronic ingestion that exceed the assumed threshold for chemical toxicity of 1 microgram g-1 only for 238U using the metabolic model of the ICRP (1979a). However, using either metabolic model (ICRP 1979a; Wrenn et al. 1985), the predicted concentrations of U in the kidney exceeded the limit of 0.1 microgram g-1, based on the assumed safety factor for protection of the public, for both 238U and natural U. From these results, we concluded that chemical toxicity should be considered in developing health protection standards for the public for ingestion of soluble 238U or natural U. Environmental radiation standards for certain practices established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Nuclear Regulatory Commission (EPA 1987a, 1987b, 1987c, 1987d; NRC 1988a) are consistent with a limit on annual effective dose equivalent of 0.25 mSv (25 mrem) per practice. If the metabolic model of Wrenn et al. 27 references

Cross-section activation measurement for U-238 through protons and deuterons in energy interval 10-14 MeV

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Guzhovskii, B.Y.; Abramovich, S.N.; Zvenigorodskii, A.G. [Russia Federal Nuclear Centre, Arzamas (Russian Federation)] [and others

1995-10-01

There were presented results of cross-section measurements for nuclear reactions {sup 238}U(p,n){sup 238}Np, {sup 238}U(d,2n){sup 238}Np, {sup 238}U(d,t){sup 237}U, {sup 238}U(d,p){sup 239}U, and {sup 238}U(d,n){sup 239}Np. Interval of projectile energy was 10-14 MeV. For measurements of cross-sections it was used the activatio methods. The registration of {beta}- and {gamma}-activity was made with using of plastic scintillation detector and Ge(Li)-detector.

Assessment of uranium exposure from total activity and 234U:238U activity ratios in urine

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nicholas, T.; Bingham, D.

2011-01-01

Radiation workers at Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE) are monitored for uranium exposure by routine bioassay sampling (primarily urine sampling). However, the interpretation of uranium in urine and faecal results in terms of occupational intakes is difficult because of the presence of uranium due to intakes from environmental (dietary) sources. For uranium in urine data obtained using current analytical techniques at AWE, the mean, median and standard deviation of excreted uranium concentrations were 0.006, 0.002 and 0.012 μg per g creatinine, respectively. These values are consistent with what might be expected from local dietary intakes and the knowledge that occupational exposures at AWE are likely to be very low. However, some samples do exceed derived investigation levels (DILs), which have been set up taking account of the likely contribution from environmental sources. We investigate how the activity and isotopic composition of uranium in the diet affects the sensitivity of uranium in urine monitoring for occupational exposures. We conclude that DILs based on both total uranium in urine activity and also 234 U: 238 U ratios are useful given the likely variation in dietary contribution for AWE workers. Assuming a background excretion rate and that the enrichment of the likely exposure is known, it is possible to assess exposures using 234 U: 238 U ratios and/or total uranium activity. The health implications of internalised uranium, enriched to 235 U, centre on its nephrotoxicity; the DILs for bioassay samples at AWE are an order of magnitude below the conservative recommendations made by the literature. (authors)

Evaluation of neutron-induced reactions in 48Ti and 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Carlson, B.V.; Fiorentino, J.; Frederico, T.; Isidro Filho, M.P.; Mastroleo, R.C.; Rego, R.A.

1984-05-01

Preliminary results of the evaluation of neutron-induced reactions in 48 Ti and 238 U are presented. Calculated cross sections for the reactions (n,γ), (n,n'), (n, 2n) and (n,p) as well as for (n,f) in 238 U are given. Comparisons with available experimental data are made and possible changes in the parameters are discussed. (Author) [pt

Measurement of the 235U/238U fission cross section ratio in the 235U fission neutron spectrum

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Azimi-Garakani, D.; Bagheri-Darbandi, M.

1983-06-01

Fission cross section ratio of 235 U to 238 U has been measured in the fast neutron field generated by the 235 U fission plate installed on the thermal column of the Tehran Research Reactor (TRR) with a Makrofol solid state nuclear track detector. The experiments were carried out with a set of total six enriched 235 U and depleted 238 U deposits with different masses and Makrofol films of 0.025mm and 0.060mm thicknesses. The chemically etched tracks were counted by an optical microscope. No significant differences were observed with the thin and the thick films. The results showed that the average fission cross section ratio is 3.83+-0.25. (author)

230Th-238U disequilibria in historical lavas from Iceland

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Condomines, M.; Morand, P.; Alleegre, C.J.; Sigvaldason, G.

1981-01-01

The 230 Th- 238 U disequilibrium studies on historical lavas from Iceland show a relative homogeneity for Th/U ratios and also a variation for ( 230 Th/ 232 Th) activity ratios at the scale of the island. The ( 230 Th/ 238 U) disequilibrium ratio is always greater than 1 which indicates that partial melting produces magmas with Th/U ratios greater than those of the mantle source. Furthermore, there seems to be a correlation between the variations of ( 230 Th/ 232 Th) (and delta 18 O) ratios and the geographical location of the samples along the active zones of Iceland. We develop and discuss several models in order to explain these variations. (orig.)

Development of fast measurements of concentration of NORM U-238 by HPGe

Science.gov (United States)

Cha, Seokki; Kim, Siu; Kim, Geehyun

2017-02-01

Naturally Occureed Radioactive Material (NORM) generated from the origin of earth can be found all around us and even people who are not engaged in the work related to radiation have been exposed to unnecessary radiation. This NORM has a potential risk provided that is concentrated or transformed by artificial activities. Likewise, a development of fast measruement method of NORM is emerging to prevent the radiation exposure of the general public and person engaged in the work related to the type of business related thereto who uses the material in which NORM is concentrated or transfromed. Based on such a background, many of countries have tried to manage NORM and carried out regulatory legislation. To effienctly manage NORM, there is need for developing new measurement to quickly and accurately analyze the nuclide and concentration. In this study, development of the fast and reliable measurement was carried out. In addition to confirming the reliability of the fast measurement, we have obtained results that can suggest the possibility of developing another fast measurement. Therefore, as a follow-up, it is possible to develop another fast analytical measurement afterwards. The results of this study will be very useful for the regulatory system to manage NORM. In this study, a review of two indirect measurement methods of NORM U-238 that has used HPGe on the basis of the equilibrium theory of relationships of mother and daughter nuclide at decay-chain of NORM U-238 has been carried out. For comparative study(in order to know reliabily), direct measurement that makes use of alpha spectrometer with complicated pre-processing process was implemented.

{sup 238}U and {sup 232}Th concentrations in various foodstuffs in Morocco and resulting radiation doses to the members of the public; Concentrations en {sup 238}U et {sup 232}Th dans differents aliments au Maroc et doses de radiations en resultant pour les membres du public

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Misdaq, M.A.; Elamyn, H.; Erramli, H. [Cadi Ayyad Univ., Nuclear Physics and Techniques Lab., Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Marrakech (Morocco)

2008-04-15

Uranium ({sup 238}U) and thorium ({sup 232}Th) concentrations were measured in different foods widely consumed in Morocco by using C.R.-39 and L.R.-115 type II solid state nuclear track detectors (S.S.N.T.D.). Data obtained were compared to those obtained by using isotope dilution mass spectrometry (I.D.M.S.). Total daily intakes of {sup 238}U and {sup 232}Th for a typical food basket were estimated to be 1.3 {+-} 0.1 mBq d{sup -1} and 0.98 {+-} 0.08 mBq d{sup -1}, 1.4 {+-} 0.1 mBq d{sup -1} and 1.06 {+-} 0.08 mBq d{sup -1}, 1.7 {+-} 0.1 mBq d{sup -1} and 1.26 {+-} 0.08 mBq d{sup -1} and 2.0 {+-} 0.1 mBq d{sup -1} and 1.5 {+-} 0.1 Bq d{sup -1} for the 2-7 years, 7-12 years, 12-17 years and adult's age groups, respectively. Alpha-activities due to annual {sup 238}U and {sup 232}Th intakes from the ingestion of the studied foodstuffs were determined in different organs and tissues of the human body of members of the public by using the ICRP gastrointestinal tract and systemic part models for these radionuclides. Committed equivalent doses due to annual intakes of {sup 238}U and {sup 232}Th were evaluated in the human body organs and tissues for different age groups of the Moroccan population by exploiting data obtained for alpha-doses deposited by 1 Bq of {sup 238}U and 1 Bq of {sup 232}Th in the considered human organs and tissues. The influence of the mass of the target tissue and activities due to {sup 238}U and {sup 232}Th on the committed equivalent doses due to annual intakes of these radionuclides in the organs and tissues of the human body was studied. (authors)

238U-230Th radioactive disequilibria in the volcanic products from Izu arc volcanoes, Japan

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kurihara, Yuichi; Takahashi, Masaomi; Sato, Jun

2007-01-01

The timescale of magmatic processes of Izu arc volcanoes, Japan, was estimated by the 238 U- 230 Th disequilibria in the volcanic products from the volcanoes. The majority of the 230 Th/ 238 U activity ratios of the products were less than unity, being enriched in 238 U relative to 230 Th. The ( 230 Th/ 232 Th)-( 238 U/ 232 Th)diagram for younger Fuji and Izu-Oshima volcanoes formed a whole rock isochrons, and the ages were 1x10 4 and 2x10 4 years, respectively. The ( 230 Th/ 232 Th) - ( 238 U/ 232 Th) data set for younger Fuji volcano formed a cluster on the diagram, while those of Izu-Oshima formed another cluster apparently apart from each other, suggesting that the concentration of U and Th may possibly be un-uniform in the mantle beneath Izu arc. (author)

Activation Doppler Measurements on U 238 and U 235 in Some Fast Reactor Spectra

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Tiren, L I; Gustafsson, I

1968-03-15

Measurements of the Doppler effect in U-238 capture and U-235 fission have been made by means of the activation technique in three different neutron spectra in the fast critical assembly FR0. The experiments involved the irradiation of thin uranium metal foils or oxide disks, which were heated in a small oven located at the core centre. The measurements on U-238 were extended to 1780 deg K and on U-235 to 1470 deg K. A core region surrounding the oven was homogenized in order to facilitate the interpretation of results. The reaction rates in the uranium samples were detected by gamma counting. The experimental method was checked with regard to systematic errors by irradiations in a thermal spectrum. The data obtained for U-238 capture were corrected for the effect of neutron collisions in the oven wall, and were extrapolated to zero sample thickness. In the softest spectrum (core 5) a Doppler effect (relative increase in capture rate) of 0.260 {+-} 0.018 was obtained on heating from 343 to 1780 deg K, and in the hardest spectrum (core 3) the corresponding value was 0.030 {+-} 0.003. An appreciable Doppler effect in U-235 fission was obtained only in the softest spectrum, in which the measured increase in fission rate on heating from 320 to 1470 deg K was 0.007 {+-} 0.003.

Inclusive quasifree electrofission cross section for 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Likhachev, V.P.; Carvalho, W.R. Jr.; Deppman, A.; Hussein, M.S.; Macedo, L.F.R.; Mesa, J.; Vaudeluci, M.S.; Arruda-Neto, J.D.T.; Evseev, I.G.; Pashchuk, S.A.; Schelin, H.R.; Garcia, F.; Rodriguez, O.; Margaryan, A.; Nesterenko, V.O.

2003-01-01

We present results from a joint theoretical and experimental study of inclusive quasifree electrofission of 238 U. The off-shell cross sections for the quasifree reaction stage have been calculated within the plane wave impulse approximation with distortion corrections included in the effective momentum approximation. Proton and neutron single-particle momentum distributions were calculated in the macroscopic-microscopic approach. The fissility for proton and neutron single hole excited states of the residual nuclei 237 Pa and 237,238 U was calculated within the compound nucleus model. Final state interaction corrections to residual nucleus excitation energy were calculated using the imaginary part of the optical potential. The total inclusive electrofission cross section was measured with high absolute precision, and all principal partial contributions are analyzed, in particular, the quasifree one

The U238 antineutrino spectrum in the Double Chooz experiment

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Haag, Nils; Oberauer, Lothar; Potzel, Walter; Schreckenbach, Klaus [Technische Universitaet, Muenchen (Germany); Lachenmaier, Tobias [Eberhard Karls Universitaet, Tuebingen (Germany)

2011-07-01

The DoubleChooz experiment aims at the determination of the unknown neutrino mixing parameter {Theta}{sub 13}. Two liquid scintillator detectors will measure an electron antineutrino disappearance at the Chooz site in the French ardennes. In order to improve the sensitivity, the antineutrino spectrum emitted by the Chooz reactor cores has to be determined with high accuracy. This talk focusses on the U238 spectrum, which is the only contributing spectrum, that was not measured until now. The final U238 beta spectrum is presented, and its implementation into the analysis framework is shown.

New explanation for extreme u-234 u-238 disequilibria in a dolomitic aquifer

CSIR Research Space (South Africa)

Kronfeld, J

1994-05-01

Full Text Available High U-234/U-238 activity ratios are found in the shallow groundwater of the phreatic Transvaal Dolomite Aquifer. The aquifer is uranium poor, while the waters are oxygen rich and young. Tritium and C-14 are used to show that the disequilibrium...

Present status of radiochemical double beta decay study (238U)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Madic, C.; Maillard, C.; Chevallier, A.; Chevallier, J.; Escoubes, B.; Schulz, N.; Sens, J.C.

1989-01-01

A sensitive experiment has been designed that will be able to measure an assumed half-life of 1.9x10 22 yr. This double beta corresponds to the activity of 27000 238 Pu nuclei formed during a year, in a 200 m deep mine, from 300 kg of 238 U, giving 210 alpha decays per year. Plutonium 238 et 239 will be determined by alpha spectroscopy after extraction chromatography. Experimental studies were undertaken to select the best conditions for running the extraction chromatography cycles

Energy distribution of neutrons from the (n,2n) reaction in 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Misulovin, A.

1978-12-01

Energy distribution of the first and second neutrons from (n,2n) scattering event in 238 U was evaluated according to the consistent compound nucleus model recently proposed by Segev. The law for deriving the energy distribution of secondary neutrons from a (n,2n) scattering event, depends on whether the reaction is considered as a simultaneous emission of two neutrons from one compound nucleus, or a successive emission of neutrons from different compound nuclei. Segev has presented a means of calculating the energy distribution assuming the latter model. The laws presented in the ENDF/B data files suggest the former model. The evaluation was based on inelastic level excitation and evaporation data for 238 U and 237 U. Data was retrieved from ENDF/B files. The evaporation data for 237 U was based on (γ,n) reaction 238 U. The inelastic level excitation data for 237 U was evaluated at the Soreq Nuclear Research Centre. It is concluded from the application of Segev's model to 238 U, that the energetic spectrum of secondary neutrons, is harder in the high range of energy than the one predicted by the use of the distribution law presented in ENDF/B data files. The spectrum of secondary (n,2n) neutrons, resulting from the interaction of 14 MeV neutrons in 238 U calculated with Segev's model, is compared with the corresponding spectrum of the LLL library, ENDF/B library and the recent evaluation of BNWL. It is found that the spectrum evaluated by LLL and BNWL is harder than that evaluated with Segev's model

Light nuclides produced in the proton-induced spallation of {sup 238}U at 1 GeV

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ricciardi, M.V.; Armbruster, P. [Gesellschaft fuer Schwerionenforschung mbH, Darmstadt (Germany); Benlliure, J. [Universidad de Santiago de Compostela (ES)] [and others

2005-09-01

The production of light and intermediate-mass nuclides formed in the reaction {sup 1}H+{sup 238}U at 1 GeV was measured at the fragment separator (FRS) at GSI, Darmstadt. The experiment was performed in inverse kinematics, shooting a 1 A GeV {sup 238}U beam on a thin liquid-hydrogen target. 254 isotopes of all elements in the range 7{<=}Z{<=}37 were unambiguously identified, and the velocity distributions of the produced nuclides were determined with high precision. The results show that the nuclides are produced in a very asymmetric binary decay of heavy nuclei originating from the spallation of uranium. All the features of the produced nuclides merge with the characteristics of the fission products as their mass increases. (orig.)

Wood fibre density measurement with 238 Pu radiation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Barry, B.J.; Baker, D.B.

1996-01-01

The form of the curve of attenuation by wood fibre of the X radiation from 238 Pu has been determined. An exponential function containing a term second order in the areal density of the fibre described the curve accurately. The effect of scatter is negligible, even with an uncollimated radiation beam. (author). 18 refs., 1 tab., 6 figs

National low-level waste management program radionuclide report series, Volume 15: Uranium-238

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Adams, J.P.

1995-09-01

This report, Volume 15 of the National Low-Level Waste Management Program Radionuclide Report Series, discusses the radiological and chemical characteristics of uranium-238 ( 238 U). The purpose of the National Low-Level Waste Management Program Radionuclide Report Series is to provide information to state representatives and developers of low-level radioactive waste disposal facilities about the radiological, chemical, and physical characteristics of selected radionuclides and their behavior in the waste disposal facility environment. This report also includes discussions about waste types and forms in which 238 U can be found, and 238 U behavior in the environment and in the human body

238U, and its decay products, in grasses from an abandoned uranium mine

Science.gov (United States)

Childs, Edgar; Maskall, John; Millward, Geoffrey

2016-04-01

Bioaccumulation of radioactive contaminants by plants is of concern particularly where the sward is an essential part of the diet of ruminants. The abandoned South Terras uranium mine, south west England, had primary deposits of uraninite (UO2) and pitchblende (U3O8), which contained up to 30% uranium. When the mine was active uranium and radium were extracted but following closure it was abandoned without remediation. Waste rock and gangue, consisting of inefficiently processed minerals, were spread around the site, including a field where ruminants are grazed. Here we report the activity concentrations of 238U, 235U 214,210Pb, and the concentrations of selected metals in the soils, roots and leaves of grasses taken from the contaminated field. Soil samples were collected at the surface, and at 30 cm depth, using an auger along a 10-point transect in the field from the foot of a waste heap. Whole, individual grass plants were removed with a spade, ensuring that their roots were intact. The soils and roots and grass leaves were freeze-dried. Activity concentrations of the radionuclides were determined by gamma spectroscopy, following 30 days incubation for development of secular equilibrium. Dried soils, roots and grasses were also digested in aqua regia and the concentrations of elements determined by ICP techniques. Maximum activity concentrations of 238U, 235U, 214Pb and 210Pb surface soils were 63,300, 4,510, 23,300 and 49,400 Bq kg-1, respectively. The mean 238U:235U ratio was 11.8 ± 1.8, an order of magnitude lower than the natural value of 138, indicating disequilibrium within the decay chain due to mineral processing. Radionuclides in the roots had 5 times lower concentration and only grass leaves in the vicinity of the waste heap had measureable values. The mean soil to root transfer factor for 238U was 36%, the mean root to leaf was 3% and overall only 0.7% of 238U was transferred from the soil to the leaves. The roots contained 0.8% iron, possibly as

238U subthreshold neutron induced fission cross section

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Difilippo, F.C.; Perez, R.B.; De Saussure, G.; Olsen, D.K.; Ingle, R.W.

1976-01-01

High resolution measurements of the 238 U neutron induced fission cross section are reported for neutron energies between 600 eV and 2 MeV. The average subthreshold fission cross section between 10 and 100 keV was found to be 44 +- 6 μb

Characterization of {sup 238}U, {sup 232}Th, {sup 40}K, and {sup 226}Ra in NORM and Air Particulate Occurring from Phosphate Processing Facility

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Jung, Yoon Hee; Lim, Jong Myoung; Ji, Young Yong; Kim, Hyun Cheol; Kim, Chang Jong; Park, Ji Yong; Chung, Kun Ho; Kang, Mun Ja [KAERI, Daejeon (Korea, Republic of)

2016-05-15

In this study, radio-activities of {sup 238}U, {sup 232}Th, {sup 40}K, and {sup 226}Ra occurring in raw materials and by-products at phosphate processing facility were complementally determined using ED-XRF, γ-spectrometry and ICP-MS method. Although the degree of immersion in the human body varies depending on the particle size and density, the particle size is especially used as a key factor in assessing dose. Thus, size distribution characteristics of {sup 238}U concentrations in airborne particulates collected at the phosphate processing facility were also evaluated. The naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM) are widely spread throughout the environment, it occupies the largest part of public radioactivity exposure. According to report of the US National Academy of Sciences, 82% of the human radiation dose received annually comes from the natural radionuclides. Radiation exposure doses from natural radionuclides is not significantly concerned level compared to those from artificial radionuclides which could be released into the environment by nuclear tests and power plant accident. It could make a serious risk problem to unspecific public when exposed to the natural radionuclides during long-term period at high activity concentration levels. Therefore, it is essential to make a professional and systematic approach for the proper handling and diminution.

Effects on elevating cancer risk in population exposed to natural radionuclide 226Ra if parent radionuclide 238U is entered the body by inhalation or ingestion

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zupunski, Lj.; Trobok, M.; Gordanic, V.; Spasic-Jokic, V.; Sovilj, P.

2009-01-01

People have always been exposed to ionizing radiation originating from natural radionuclides including 238 U, 40 K, 232 Th that exist in earths crust. Although received doses are small, due to the fact that threshold does not exist, there is a certain risk of developing cancer. Purpose of this study was to measure 238 U concentrations in soil of Bela Crkva territory. Based on these measurements, risks of developing cancers are calculated using Monte Carlo method.(author) [sr

U-234/U-238 ratio: Qualitative estimate of groundwater flow in Rocky Flats monitoring wells

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Laul, J.C.

1994-01-01

Groundwater movement through various pathways is the primary mechanism for the transport of radionuclides and trace elements in a water/rock interaction. About three dozen wells, installed in the Rocky Flats Plant (RFP) Solar Evaporation Ponds (SEP) area, are monitored quarterly to evaluate the extent of any lateral and downgradient migration of contaminants from the Solar Evaporation Ponds: 207-A; 207-B North, 207-B Center, and 207-B South; and 207-C. The Solar Ponds are the main source for the various contaminants: radionuclides (U-238, U-234, Pu-239, 240 and Am-241); anions; and trace metals to groundwaters. The U-238 concentrations in Rocky Flats groundwaters vary from 2 (CO 3 ) 2 2- , because of the predominant bicarbonate medium

Determination of 234U and 238U activity concentrations in groundwaters from three deep wells drilled in Itu Intrusive Suite (SP)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Souza, Francisca de

2006-01-01

Activity concentrations of ( 234 U) and ( 238 U) were determined in groundwaters drawn from three deep wells drilled in rocks from Itu Intrusive Suite (SP), two located in Salto town (S and SY wells) and the other one in Itu (I well). Sampling was done from September, 2004 to December, 2005, and twelve samples of each well were collected monthly. For those determinations alpha spectrometry technique was used, providing high precision results, as shown by the very good agreement of the data obtained in the analyses of 23 duplicates. The waters from the three wells presented a considerable enrichment of 234 U in relation to 238 U, indicating an important radioactive disequilibrium of these isotopes. In well I, the activity concentrations of ( 238 U) varied from (1,06 +- 0,03) to (2,1+- 0,2) mBq/L and those of ( 234 U) spanned from (3,1 +- 0,2) to (6,0 +- 0,4) mBq/L, whereas ( 234 U/ 238 U) activity ratios did not present significant variation, during the sampling time interval, presenting an average of 2,8 +- 0,1. The S waters showed the lowest uranium concentrations and the largest diversity of ( 238 U) and ( 234 U) activity concentrations, which varied from (0,26 +- 0,02) to (1,07+- 0,08) mBq/L and from (1,8 +- 0,1) to (7,0 +- 0,5) mBq/L, respectively, and also presented variable ( 234 U/ 238 U) activity ratios, spanning from (2,79 +- 0,07) to (8,1+- 0,3). In SY well, ( 238 U) activities varied between (0,8 +- 0,1) and (4,2 +- 0,3) mBq/L and those ones of ( 234 U) from (14 +- 1) to (53 +- 4) mBq/L, whereas ( 234 U/ 238 U) ratios fell in the interval from 12,6 +- 0,3 to 18,3 +- 0,4, with the highest activities of both radioisotopes registered during the dry season and the lowest ones in the rainy time period. The ( 234 U/ 238 U) activity ratios, which were invariable during sampling period of well I, indicated the contribution of rainfall to recharge the aquifer. The observed correlation between those ratios and uranium concentrations, for S and SY wells, showed

Comparison of the simulated diffusion of 238U and 234U isotopes with profile data from granite fractures

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Latham, A.G.

1991-01-01

The observed profiles of uranium content and 234 U/ 238 U activity ratios as they vary with distance into the rock at a granite fracture wall have been interpreted using a simple diffusion-sorption model. For simplicity, the model assumes a linear reversible isotherm. Using simple constraints, it has been possible to estimate long-term values appropriate for the distribution coefficient, K d for uranium in granite. A potential constraint on the uranium K d value is provided by the 234 U/ 238 U activity ratio variations. However, natural 234 U/ 238 U activity ratios seldom change monotonically with distance and it is suspected that they are the result, to some extent, of later uranium removal. To take this approach further, corresponding physical rock property data and closer sampling in the fracture profiles would be required. Estimates of K d are in the range 0.1 to 10 m 3 kg -1 , and are in agreement with the upper part of the range obtained from laboratory experiments. (author)

Electron scattering from the octupole band in 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hirsch, A.; Creswell, C.; Bertozzi, W.; Heisenberg, J.; Hynes, M.V.; Kowalski, S.; Miska, H.; Norum, B.; Rad, F.N.; Sargent, C.P.; Sasanuma, T.; Turchinetz, W.

1978-01-01

A simple model for nuclear surface vibrations in permanently deformed nuclei does well in reproducing electron scattering cross sections of rotational levels built on a K/sup π/= 0 - intrinsic octupole vibration in 238 U

Resonance Region Covariance Analysis Method and New Covariance Data for Th-232, U-233, U-235, U-238, and Pu-239

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Leal, Luiz C.; Arbanas, Goran; Derrien, Herve; Wiarda, Dorothea

2008-01-01

Resonance-parameter covariance matrix (RPCM) evaluations in the resolved resonance region were done for 232Th, 233U, 235U, 238U, and 239Pu using the computer code SAMMY. The retroactive approach of the code SAMMY was used to generate the RPCMs for 233U, 235U. RPCMs for 232Th, 238U and 239Pu were generated together with the resonance parameter evaluations. The RPCMs were then converted in the ENDF format using the FILE32 representation. Alternatively, for computer storage reasons, the FILE32 was converted in the FILE33 cross section covariance matrix (CSCM). Both representations were processed using the computer code PUFF-IV. This paper describes the procedures used to generate the RPCM with SAMMY.

High energy resolution measurement of the sup 238 U neutron capture yield from 1 to 100 keV

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Macklin, R.L. (Tennessee Univ., Knoxville, TN (United States). Dept. of Nuclear Engineering); Perez, R.B. (Tennessee Univ., Knoxville, TN (United States). Dept. of Nuclear Engineering Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (United States)); De Saussure, G.; Ingle, R.W. (Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (United States))

1991-01-01

The purpose of this work is the precise determination of the {sup 238}U neutron capture yield (i.e. the probability of neutron capture) as a function of neutron energy with the highest available neutron energy resolution. The motivation for this undertaking arises from the central role played by the {sup 238}U neutron capture process in the neutron balance of both thermal reactors and fast breeder reactors. The present measurement was performed using the Oak Ridge Electron Linear Accelerator (ORELA) facility. The pulsed beam of neutrons from the ORELA facility is collimated on a sample of {sup 238}U. The neutron capture rate in the sample is measured, as a function of neutron time-of-flight (TOF) by detecting the {gamma}-rays from the {sup 238}U(n, {gamma}){sup 239}U reaction with a large {gamma}-ray detector surrounding the {sup 238}U sample. At each energy, the capture yield is proportional to the observed capture rate divided by the measured intensity of the neutron beam. The constant of proportionality (the normalization constant) is obtained from the ratio of theoretical to experimentally measured areas under small {sup 238}U resonances where the resonance parameters have been determined from high-resolution {sup 238}U transmission measurements. The cross section for the reaction {sup 238}U(n,{gamma}){sup 239}U can be derived from the measured capture yield if one applies appropriate corrections for multiple scattering and resonance self-shielding. Some 200 {sup 238}U neutron resonances in the energy range from 250 eV to 10 keV have been observed which had not been detected in previous measurements. (author).

Using 238U/235U ratios to understand the formation and oxidation of reduced uranium solids in naturally reduced zones

Science.gov (United States)

Jemison, N.; Johnson, T. M.; Druhan, J. L.; Davis, J. A.

2016-12-01

Uranium occurs in groundwater primarily as soluble and mobile U(VI), which can be reduced to immobile U(IV), often observed in sediments as uraninite. Numerous U(VI)-contaminated sites, such as the DOE field site in Rifle, CO, contain naturally reduced zones (NRZ's) that have relatively high concentrations of organic matter. Reduction of heavy metals occurs within NRZ's, producing elevated concentrations of iron sulfides and U(IV). Slow, natural oxidation of U(IV) from NRZ's may prolong U(VI) contamination of groundwater. The reduction of U(VI) produces U(IV) with a higher 238U/235U ratio. Samples from two NRZ sediment cores recovered from the Rifle site revealed that the outer fringes of the NRZ contain U(IV) with a high 238U/235U ratio, while lower values are observed in the center . We suggest that as aqueous U(VI) was reduced in the NRZ, it was driven to lower 238U/235U values, such that U(IV) formed in the core of the NRZ reflects a lower 238U/235U. Two oxidation experiments were conducted by injecting groundwater containing between 14.9 and 21.2 mg/L dissolved O2 as an oxidant into the NRZ. The oxidation of U(IV) from this NRZ increased aqueous U(VI) concentrations and caused a shift to higher 238U/235U in groundwater as U(IV) was oxidized primarily on the outer fringes of the NRZ. In total these observations suggest that the stability of solid phase uranium is governed by coupled reaction and transport processes. To better understand various reactive transport scenarios we developed a model for the formation and oxidation of NRZ's utilizing the reactive transport software CrunchTope. These simulations suggest that the development of isotopically heterogeneous U(IV) within NRZ's is largely controlled by permeability of the NRZ and the U(VI) reduction rate. Oxidation of U(IV) from the NRZ's is constrained by the oxidation rate of U(IV) as well as iron sulfides, which can prevent oxidation of U(IV) by scavenging dissolved oxygen.

Experimental determination of the antineutrino spectrum of the fission products of 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Haag, Nils-Holger

2013-01-01

Fission of 238 U contributes about 10 % to the antineutrino emission of a pressurized water reactor. In the present thesis, the beta spectrum of the fission products of 238 U was determined in an experiment at the neutron source FRM II. This beta spectrum was subsequently converted into an antineutrino spectrum. This first measurement of the antineutrino spectrum supports all current and future reactor antineutrino experiments.

238U and 237Np nuclear fission by 90-270 MeV electrons

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kuznetsov, V.L.; Nedorezov, V.G.; Nikitina, N.V.; Noga, V.I.; Ranyuk, Yu.N.; Telegin, Yu.N.; Smirnov, A.N.; Ehjsmont, V.P.

1981-01-01

A technique for measuring cross sections of 238 U and 237 Np nuclei fission caused by 90-270 MeV electrons is described. Measurement results are given. The results obtained are discussed on the basis of the virtual photon method. It is shown that the difference in cross sections of 238 U and 237 Np electrofission is due to the different contribution of the giant resonance [ru

Uranium ((234)U, (235)U and (238)U) contamination of the environment surrounding phosphogypsum waste heap in Wiślinka (northern Poland).

Science.gov (United States)

Olszewski, Grzegorz; Boryło, Alicja; Skwarzec, Bogdan

2015-08-01

The aim of this work was to determine the uranium concentration ((234)U, (235)U and (238)U) and values of the activity ratio (234)U/(238)U in soil samples collected near phosphogypsum waste heap in Wiślinka (northern Poland). On the basis of the studies it was found that the values of the (234)U/(238)U activity ratio in the analyzed soils collected in the vicinity of phosphogypsum dump in Wiślinka are in most cases close to one and indicate the phosphogypsum origin of the analyzed nuclides. The obtained results of uranium concentrations are however much lower than in previous years before closing of the phosphogypsum stockpile. After this process and covering the phosphogypsum stockpile in Wiślinka with sewage sludge, phosphogypsum particles are successfully immobilized. In the light of the results the use of phosphate fertilizers seems to be a major problem. Prolonged and heavy rains can cause leaching accumulated uranium isotopes in the phosphogypsum stockpile, which will be washed into the Martwa Wisła and on the fields in the immediate vicinity of this storage. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Extreme fractionation of 234U 238U and 230Th 234U in spring waters, sediments, and fossils at the Pomme de Terre Valley, southwestern Missouri

Science.gov (United States)

Szabo, B. J.

1982-01-01

Isotopic fractionation as great as 1600% exists between 234U and 238U in spring waters, sediments, and fossils in the Pomme de Terre Valley, southwestern Missouri. The activity ratios of 234U 238U in five springs range from 7.2 to 16 in water which has been discharged for at least the past 30,000 years. The anomalies in 234U 238U ratio in deep water have potential usefulness in hydrologic investigations in southern Missouri. Clayey units overlying the spring bog sediments of Trolinger Spring are enriched in 230Th relative to their parent 234U by as much as 720%. The results indicate that both preferential displacement via alpha recoil ejection and the preferential emplacement via recoiling and physical entrapment are significant processes that are occurring in the geologic environment. ?? 1982.

Sensitivity of 238U resonance absorption to library multigroup structure as calculated by WIMS-AECL

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Laughton, P.J.; Donnelly, J.V.

1995-01-01

In simulations of the TRX-1 experimental lattice, WIMS-AECL overpredicts, relative to MCNP, resonance absorption in neutron-energy groups containing the three large, low-lying resonances of 238 U when a standard ENDF/B-V-based library is used. A total excess in these groups of 4.0 neutron captures by 238 U per thousand fission neutrons has been observed. Similar comparisons are made in this work for the MIT-4 experimental lattice and simplified CANDU lattice cells containing 37-element fuel, with and without heavy-water coolant. Eleven different 89-group cross-section libraries were constructed for WIMS-AECL from ENDF/B-V data: only the neutron-energy-group boundaries used in generating multigroup cross sections and the Goldstein-Cohen correction factors differ from one library to the next. The first library uses the original 89-group structure, and the other ten involve energy groups of varying widths centred on the three large, low-lying resonances of 238 U. For TRX-1, some reduction in total discrepancy in 238 U capture can be achieved by using a new structure, although the improvement is small. The discrepancies in 238 U capture are of the same order for the MIT-4 case as those observed for TRX-1 for both the original group structure and the ten new structures. The WIMS-AECL calculation of 238 U resonance absorption in the same ranges of energy for the simplified CANDU 37-element lattice are in better agreement with MCNP than they are for TRX-1 and MIT-4: when the original structure is used, WIMS-AECL underpredicts total capture rate by 238 U in the energy range of interest by only 0.56 per thousand fission neutrons (coolant present) and 0.88 per thousand fission neutrons (voided coolant channel). The discrepancies are reduced when some of the new structures are used. For almost all of the cases considered here-TRX-1, MIT-4 and CANDU with coolant-better group-by-group agreement of 238 U capture around the 6.67-eV resonance is achieved by using a new library

A statistical study of {sup 238}U and {sup 234}U/{sup 238}U distributions in coral samples from the Egyptian shoreline of the north-western Red sea and in fossil mollusk shells from the Atlantic coast of High Atlas in Morocco: implications for {sup 230}Th/{sup 234}U dating

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Choukri, A.; Hakam, O.K. [Lab. des Faibles Radioactivites et d' Environnements, UFR: Faibles Radioactivites, Mathematiques physiques et environnement, Kenitra (Morocco); Reyss, J.L. [Lab. des Sciences de Climat et de l' Environnement, Domaine du CNRS, Gif sur Yvette (France); Plaziat, J.C. [Univ. de Paris-Sud, Dept. des Sciences de la Terre, Orsay (France)

2002-07-01

In this work, radiochemical analysis results of 126 uncrystallized coral samples from the Egyptian shoreline of northwestern Red Sea and 120 fossil mollusk shell samples from the Atlantic coast of Moroccan High Atlas at the North of Agadir City in Morocco are presented and discussed. The coral samples were collected in Egypt from the emerged coral reef terraces over 500 km from The Ras Gharib-Ras Shukeir depression (28 10') in the north to Wadi Lahami (north of Ras Banas, 24 10') in the south. The fossil mollusk shells were collected in Morocco from Agadir-Harbour in the south to Tamri village in the north extending over about 50 km. The statistical distributions of results ({sup 238}U content, {sup 234}U/{sup 238}U activity ratio and ages) obtained on the dated materials in the two different regions were compared for three fossil sea levels corresponding to three different climatic stages (Holocene, 5e, 7 and/or 9) in the aim to establish methodological criteria for judging validity of the measured ages. For corals, {sup 238}U content varies in narrow interval around the same average value of 3 ppm for the three sea levels, the calculated initial {sup 234}U/{sup 238}U values are in agreement with the actual sea water ratio (1.15) with some values slightly higher than for the older sea levels. The obtained ages are in good agreement with the ages reported previously for the three emerged fossil sea levels on unrecrystallized corals by alpha spectrometry and by mass spectrometry. For mollusk shells, except for Holocene sea level, {sup 238}U and initial {sup 234}U/{sup 238}U activity ratios vary for the older levels in wide intervals, independent of species and calcite contents of samples. The high {sup 238}U contents and {sup 234}U/{sup 238}U activity ratio are due eventually to a post-incorporation of secondary uranium from sea water or from continental waters drained away rivers. This incorporation leads to a rejuvenation of mollusk shell ages and is

230Th-238U disequilibrium and the melting processes beneath ridge axes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

McKenzie, D.

1985-01-01

The activity ratio ( 230 Th/ 238 U) is calculated for a simple model of melting, for which the melt fraction in chemical and radioactive equilibrium with the solid residium remains constant as melting proceeds. The activity ratio in the melt is only significantly different from unity if the melting is slow compared with the half-life of 230 Th and if the melt fraction present at any time does not exceed a few percent. The observation that ( 230 Th/ 238 U) is about 1.25 for many ocean ridge basalts is therefore most easily explained if the melt fraction in the source region is less than 2% and if the melting occurs in a broad region more than 100 km wide beneath the ridge axis. These results are compatible with other geophysical observations. Measurements of ( 226 Ra/ 238 U) might provide useful constraints on the time required to reach chemical equilibrium between the melt and the matrix. (orig.)

238U-234U-230Th chronometry of Fe-Mn crusts: Growth processes and recovery of thorium isotopic ratios of seawater

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chabaux, F.; Cohen, A.S.; O'Nions, R.K.; Hein, J.R.

1995-01-01

Comparison of ( 234 U) excess /( 238 U) and ( 230 Th)/( 232 Th) activity ratios in oceanic Fe-Mn deposits provides a method for assessing the closed-system behaviour of 238 U- 234 U- 230 Th, as well as variations in the initial uranium and thorium isotopic ratios of the precipitated metal oxides. This approach is illustrated using a Fe-Mn crust from Lotab seamount (Marshall Islands, west equatorial Pacific). Here we report uranium and thorium isotopic compositions in five subsamples from the surface of one large 5 cm diameter botyroid of this crust, and from two depth profiles of the outermost rim of the same botyroid. The decrease of ( 234 U) excess /( 238 U) and ( 230 Th/ 232 Th) activity ratio with depth in the two profiles gives mean growth rates, for the last 150 ka, of 7.8 ± 2 mm/Ma and 6.6 ± 1 mm/Ma, respectively. All data points (surface and core samples) but one, define a linear correlation in the Ln ( 230 Th/ 232 Th) - Ln [( 234 U) excess ( 238 U)] diagram. This correlation indicates that for all points the U-Th system remained closed after the Fe-Mn layer precipitated, and that the different samples possessed the same initial Uranium and thorium isotope ratios. Furthermore, these results show that the preserved surface of this Fe-Mn crust may not be the present-day growth surface, and that the thorium and uranium isotopic ratios of seawater in west equatorial Pacific have not changed during the past 150 ka. The initial thorium activity ratio is estimated from the correlation obtained between Ln( 230 Th/ 232 Th) and Ln [( 234 U) excess /( 238 U)

Origin of the {sup 238}U-{sup 230}Th disequilibrium in magmas from subduction zones: the Arenal example; Origine du desequilibre {sup 238}U-{sup 230}TH dans les magmas des zones de subduction: exemple de l`Arenal

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Villemant, B [Paris-6 Univ., 75 (France)

1997-12-31

The existence in some volcanic products of strong excess of {sup 238}U with respect to {sup 230}Th is one of the characteristics of volcanic arc magmas. These excesses are generally attributed to fluid additions inside mantellic sources before magma segregation, differentiation and eruption. These fluids should be linked to the dehydration of the subducted rocks. These hypotheses are essentially based on correlations between {sup 10}Be, {sup 87}Sr anomalies, Ba/La ratios and on the distribution of volcanic centers with respect to the subduction zone. Recent studies suggest an evolution of the composition of volcanic sources in Central America from a depleted mantle type (MORB) in the North (Nicaragua) to a less transformed enriched type (OIB) in the South (Costa Rica). The Arenal volcano belongs to a transition zone between these two types. The preliminary study of trace elements and {sup 238}U-{sup 230}Th disequilibria in recent volcanic products (1968-1993) indicates a more complex situation. At least two different mantle sources were successively involved characterized by different Th/La and La/Yb ratios and very different to the OIB type. Also most lavas are in equilibrium with {sup 238}U/{sup 232}Th ratios of about 1.2 to 1.3. However, in eruptive cycle, some lavas are characterized by a strong {sup 238}U excess with respect to {sup 230}Th with cannot be linked to the sources, even when modified by fluids in depth. These results are interpreted in terms of heterogeneities of mantle sources and low depths late interactions with hydrothermal fluids during eruptions. Abstract only. (J.S.). 2 refs.

Origin of the {sup 238}U-{sup 230}Th disequilibrium in magmas from subduction zones: the Arenal example; Origine du desequilibre {sup 238}U-{sup 230}TH dans les magmas des zones de subduction: exemple de l`Arenal

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Villemant, B. [Paris-6 Univ., 75 (France)

1996-12-31

The existence in some volcanic products of strong excess of {sup 238}U with respect to {sup 230}Th is one of the characteristics of volcanic arc magmas. These excesses are generally attributed to fluid additions inside mantellic sources before magma segregation, differentiation and eruption. These fluids should be linked to the dehydration of the subducted rocks. These hypotheses are essentially based on correlations between {sup 10}Be, {sup 87}Sr anomalies, Ba/La ratios and on the distribution of volcanic centers with respect to the subduction zone. Recent studies suggest an evolution of the composition of volcanic sources in Central America from a depleted mantle type (MORB) in the North (Nicaragua) to a less transformed enriched type (OIB) in the South (Costa Rica). The Arenal volcano belongs to a transition zone between these two types. The preliminary study of trace elements and {sup 238}U-{sup 230}Th disequilibria in recent volcanic products (1968-1993) indicates a more complex situation. At least two different mantle sources were successively involved characterized by different Th/La and La/Yb ratios and very different to the OIB type. Also most lavas are in equilibrium with {sup 238}U/{sup 232}Th ratios of about 1.2 to 1.3. However, in eruptive cycle, some lavas are characterized by a strong {sup 238}U excess with respect to {sup 230}Th with cannot be linked to the sources, even when modified by fluids in depth. These results are interpreted in terms of heterogeneities of mantle sources and low depths late interactions with hydrothermal fluids during eruptions. Abstract only. (J.S.). 2 refs.

Evaluation of covariance for 238U cross sections

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kawano, Toshihiko; Nakamura, Masahiro; Matsuda, Nobuyuki; Kanda, Yukinori

1995-01-01

Covariances of 238 U are generated using analytic functions for representation of the cross sections. The covariances of the (n,2n) and (n,3n) reactions are derived with a spline function, while the covariances of the total and the inelastic scattering cross section are estimated with a linearized nuclear model calculation. (author)

Measurement of the 234U/238U activity ratios in the organs and internal tissues of a domestic goat kid (Capra aegagrus hircus)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Francesco De Santis; Massimo Esposito

2015-01-01

In this paper, we compare the 234 U/ 238 U activity ratios (ARs) in various internal tissues and organs of a goat kid with the ingested 234 U/ 238 U AR to assess isotopic fractionation. The results obtained from soft tissues (i.e., the kidneys, liver, lung, and bladder) that undergo indirect assimilation of uranium from the feed through the bloodstream suggest an increase in the 234 U/ 238 U AR. In contrast, the intestine, bones and feces had the same AR values as the feed. Finally, we broadly assess uranium transfer from the feed to the animal based on the concentration ratio and the feed transfer coefficient. (author)

Depth profiling of residual activity of ^{237}U fragments as a range verification technique for ^{238}U primary ion beam

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

I. Strašík

2012-07-01

Full Text Available Experimental and simulation data concerning fragmentation of ^{238}U ion beam in aluminum, copper, and stainless-steel targets with the initial energy 500 and 950  MeV/u are collected in the paper. A range-verification technique based on depth profiling of residual activity is presented. The irradiated targets were constructed in the stacked-foil geometry and analyzed using gamma-ray spectroscopy. One of the purposes of these experiments was depth profiling of residual activity of induced nuclides and projectile fragments. Among the projectile fragments, special attention is paid to the ^{237}U isotope that has a range very close to the range of the primary ^{238}U ions. Therefore, the depth profiling of the ^{237}U isotope can be utilized for experimental verification of the ^{238}U primary-beam range, which is demonstrated and discussed in the paper. The experimental data are compared with computer simulations by FLUKA, SRIM, and ATIMA, as well as with complementary experiments.

Studies on 232Th and 238U levels in marine algae collected from the coast of Niigata Prefecture

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kato, Kenji; Tonouchi, Shigemasa; Maruta, Fumiyuki; Ebata, Hidekazu

2001-01-01

To evaluate the properties of algae to concentrate radioactive elements, 14 species of algae like Sargassum were collected in the Prefecture and analyzed for their 232 Th and 238 U levels with Yokogawa HP4500 ICP-MS apparatus. The places of collection included those near the water discharge of an atomic power station. Mean 232 Th and 238 U levels were found to be 120 and 260 ng/g dry wt, respectively, and Phaeophyta showed more than several times higher 238 U level than Chlorophyta and Rhodophyta. There was no clear difference in 232 Th levels. No difference between places of collection was observed in Sargassum 232 Th or 238 U level. Adsorption of 232 Th particle to and incorporation of soluble 238 U into algae body were suggested. Mean 232 Th and 238 U radioactivities were found 73 and 510 μBq/g wet wt, respectively, and the respective annual committed effective doses, 0.2 and 0.3 μSv, calculated from those values were confirmed to be enough lower than the annual public dose limit, 1 mSv. (K.H.)

Determination of specific concentrations of 40K, 238U and 232Th in mineral fertilizer samples

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Garcez, Ricardo W.D.; Lopes, Jose M.; Silva, Ademir X.

2015-01-01

The use of fertilizer is an established practice worldwide to promote agricultural productivity increased without increasing the planted area, resulting in native forests protection and increase of the food availability. Some kinds of fertilizer have in their chemical composition some radionuclides due the origin of its feedstock, such as 238 U, the 232 Th, and their descendants, beyond 40 K. Knowledge of the radioactivity levels in the environment is great importance to know the gamma radiation dose that the human being is exposed. For identification and quantitation of radionuclides, it was used gamma spectrometry where HPGe detector was used to obtain the spectra, and LabSOCS software for calculating the detection efficiency for each energy. The values of 232 Th specific concentrations ranged from 4.1 to 368.1 Bq.Kg -1 , the values of 238 U specific concentrations ranged from 16.0 to 647.7 Bq.Kg -1 and 40 K specific concentrations ranged from 19.1 to 12713 Bq.Kg -1 . Concentrations of values are consistent with those found in literature. (author)

Activity disequilibrium between 234U and 238U isotopes in natural environment

OpenAIRE

Bory?o, Alicja; Skwarzec, Bogdan

2014-01-01

The aim of this work was to calculate the values of the 234U/238U activity ratio in natural environment (water, sediments, Baltic organisms and marine birds from various regions of the southern Baltic Sea; river waters (the Vistula and the Oder River); plants and soils collected near phosphogypsum waste heap in Wi?linka (Northern Poland) and deer-like animals from Northern Poland. On the basis of the studies it was found that the most important processes of uranium geochemical migration in th...

A study on possible use of Urtica dioica (common nettle) plants as uranium (234U, 238U) contamination bioindicator near phosphogypsum stockpile.

Science.gov (United States)

Olszewski, Grzegorz; Boryło, Alicja; Skwarzec, Bogdan

The aim of this study was to determine uranium concentrations in common nettle ( Urtica dioica ) plants and corresponding soils samples which were collected from the area of phosphogypsum stockpile in Wiślinka (northern Poland). The uranium concentrations in roots depended on its concentrations in soils. Calculated BCF and TF values showed that soils characteristics and air deposition affect uranium absorption and that different uranium species have different affinities to U . dioica plants. The values of 234 U/ 238 U activity ratio indicate natural origin of these radioisotopes in analyzed plants. Uranium concentration in plants roots is negatively weakly correlated with distance from phosphogypsum stockpile.

A study on possible use of Urtica dioica (common nettle) plants as uranium (234U, 238U) contamination bioindicator near phosphogypsum stockpile

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Olszewski, Grzegorz; Borylo, Alicja; Skwarzec, Bogdan

2016-01-01

The aim of this study was to determine uranium concentrations in common nettle (Urtica dioica) plants and corresponding soils samples which were collected from the area of phosphogypsum stockpile in Wislinka (northern Poland). The uranium concentrations in roots depended on its concentrations in soils. Calculated BCF and TF values showed that soils characteristics and air deposition affect uranium absorption and that different uranium species have different affinities to U. dioica plants. The values of 234 U/ 238 U activity ratio indicate natural origin of these radioisotopes in analyzed plants. Uranium concentration in plants roots is negatively weakly correlated with distance from phosphogypsum stockpile. (author)

Environmental control of U concentration and 234U/238U in speleothems at subannual resolution

Science.gov (United States)

Hu, C.; Henderson, G. M.

2003-12-01

Trace element and isotope variability in speleothems encodes a range of information about the past environment, although its interpretation is often problematic. U concentration and isotopes have frequently been analysed in speleothems in order to provide chronology, but their use as environmental proxies in their own right has not been comprehensively investigated. In this study, we have investigated the environmental controls of U in a stalagmite from the Central Yangtze Valley in China. This stalagmite grew rapidly throughout the Holocone and contains visible annual layers about 300microns thick. Analysis of a portion of the stalagmite corresponding to the 1970s by electron probe, LA-ICP-MS, and by physical subsampling indicate clear annual cycles in Sr/Ca, Mg/Ca, and Ba/Ca. The reasonably open cave structure and the correlation of Sr/Ca with Mg/Ca suggest that temperature exerts considerable control over these trace element variations. U/Ca also varies seasonally by up to 42 % and shows a clear anti-correlation with Mg/Ca (correlation coefficient -0.64). Based on the inverse relationship between U/Ca and temperature exhibited in other carbonates (e.g. corals) the speleothem U/Ca is suggested to be controlled primarily by temperature and may provide a paleo cave thermometer with less rainfall influence than Mg/Ca. Ongoing monitoring of the cave temperature and humidity will assess the robustness of this conclusion and the sensitivity of speleothem U/Ca to temperature. (234U/238U) in this stalagmite range from 1.733 to 1.872 during the Holocene. The U concentration is high enough (typically 0.48 ppm) and growth rate fast enough, that (234U/238U) can also be measured at a subannual resolution. The expected alpha-recoil control of excess 234U supply suggests that these measurements may provide a measure of the transit time of recharge waters to the stalagmite during the seasonal cycle. Such a proxy would enable deconvolution of temperature and recharge-rate control

Double beta decay of Uranium-238: Proton reactions of 238U in 5--12 MeV range. Final report, April 15, 1987--March 31, 1992

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Turkevich, A.; Economou, T.E.

1993-01-01

This report is in two parts. The first part reports on the experimental work determining the half-life for double beta decay of 238 U to 238 PU to be (2.0 ± 0.6) x 10 21 years. This is the first evidence for a third mode of decay of this heaviest naturally occurring nucleus. This rate is about 10 6 times slower than spontaneous fission, which itself is about 10 6 times slower than alpha decay. The implication of this double beta decay to neutrino masses depends on uncertain theoretical calculations of the rate for such a heavy nucleus. The second part reports on yields of principal fission products from 5.6, 7.3, 9.4, and 11.5 MeV proton interactions with 238 U. The yields at 11.5 MeV are similar to those from 14 MeV neutron fission of 238 U. At the same time, the production cross sections of 238 Np at the same energies are determined. This nuclide is produced as often as fission at the lowest energy but only 3.8% as often at the highest energy

Quantification of 235U and 238U activity concentrations for undeclared nuclear materials by a digital gamma-gamma coincidence spectroscopy.

Science.gov (United States)

Zhang, Weihua; Yi, Jing; Mekarski, Pawel; Ungar, Kurt; Hauck, Barry; Kramer, Gary H

2011-06-01

The purpose of this study is to investigate the possibility of verifying depleted uranium (DU), natural uranium (NU), low enriched uranium (LEU) and high enriched uranium (HEU) by a developed digital gamma-gamma coincidence spectroscopy. The spectroscopy consists of two NaI(Tl) scintillators and XIA LLC Digital Gamma Finder (DGF)/Pixie-4 software and card package. The results demonstrate that the spectroscopy provides an effective method of (235)U and (238)U quantification based on the count rate of their gamma-gamma coincidence counting signatures. The main advantages of this approach over the conventional gamma spectrometry include the facts of low background continuum near coincident signatures of (235)U and (238)U, less interference from other radionuclides by the gamma-gamma coincidence counting, and region-of-interest (ROI) imagine analysis for uranium enrichment determination. Compared to conventional gamma spectrometry, the method offers additional advantage of requiring minimal calibrations for (235)U and (238)U quantification at different sample geometries. Crown Copyright © 2011. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Study of some modern carbonated marine organisms, using U234/U238 activities and its uranium concentration

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pregnolatto, Y.

1975-01-01

Several types of alive carbonated organisms of marine fluvial or mixed environment origin were analized in its concentrations of Uranium and about its activity ratio U 234 /U 238 . In the same way measurements were made from the water of these three types of environments. The results indicate that the mollusks shells show a very low concentration compared with corals. Its concentration varies from 0.04 to 0.33 ppm. Inside the limit of errors we can say that the several types of carbonated organisms show the same disequilibrium U 234 /U 238 which was found in associated waters. An analysis of a piece of wood from long time immersed in the sea water was made. The result indicates that there was a marked high in concentration of Uranium due to chelatation with organic matter. (C.D.G.) [pt

Experimental determination of the antineutrino spectrum of the fission products of {sup 238}U

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Haag, Nils-Holger

2013-10-09

Fission of {sup 238}U contributes about 10 % to the antineutrino emission of a pressurized water reactor. In the present thesis, the beta spectrum of the fission products of {sup 238}U was determined in an experiment at the neutron source FRM II. This beta spectrum was subsequently converted into an antineutrino spectrum. This first measurement of the antineutrino spectrum supports all current and future reactor antineutrino experiments.

Charge-pickup of 238U at relativistic energies

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rubehn, T.; Bassini, R.; Blaich, T.; Imme, G.; Iori, I.; Kunze, W.D.; Lindenstruth, V.; Lynen, U.; Moehlenkamp, T.; Moretto, L.G.; Ocker, B.; Pochodzalla, J.; Raciti, G.; Schuettauf, A.; Serfling, V.; Trautmann, W.; Trzcinski, A.; Verde, G.; Woerner, A.; Zude, E.; Zwieglinski, B.

1995-10-01

Cross sections for the charge-pickup of 238 U projectiles were measured at E/A=600 and 1000 MeV for seven different targets (Be, C, Al, Cu, In, Au and U). Events with two fission fragments with a sum charge of 93 in the exit channel were selected. Due to the significant excitation energy, the dominant part of produced Np nuclei fission instead of decaying to the ground state by evaporation. The observed cross sections can be well reproduced by intranuclear-cascade-plus-evaporation calculations and, therefore, confirm recent results that no exotic processes are needed to explain charge-pickup processes. (orig.)

Delayed fission of the 238U muonic atom

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ganzorig, Dz.; Krogulski, T.; Kuznetsov, V.D.; Polikanov, S.M.; Sabirov, B.M.

1975-01-01

The time distributions of fission and muon free decay events with respect to the moment of the muon-stop event have been measured for double and triple coincidences between these three events. The triple-coincidence time distributions give an indication of the o-curence of two new effects: the delayed fission of muonic 238 U atom and conversion of muons from the fission fragments

Solubility of 238U radionuclide from various types of soil in synthetic gastrointestinal fluids using "US in vitro" digestion method

Science.gov (United States)

Rashid, Nur Shahidah Abdul; Sarmani, Sukiman; Majid, Amran Ab.; Mohamed, Faizal; Siong, Khoo Kok

2015-04-01

238U radionuclide is a naturally occuring radioactive material that can be found in soil. In this study, the solubility of 238U radionuclide obtained from various types of soil in synthetic gastrointestinal fluids was analysed by "US P in vitro" digestion method. The synthetic gastrointestinal fluids were added to the samples with well-ordered, mixed throughly and incubated according to the human physiology digestive system. The concentration of 238U radionuclide in the solutions extracted from the soil was measured using Induced Coupling Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS). The concentration of 238U radionuclide from the soil samples in synthetic gastrointestinal fluids showed different values due to different homogenity of soil types and chemical reaction of 238U radionuclide. In general, the solubility of 238U radionuclide in gastric fluid was higher (0.050 - 0.209 ppm) than gastrointestinal fluids (0.024 - 0.050 ppm). It could be concluded that the US P in vitro digestion method is practicle for estimating the solubility of 238U radionuclide from soil materials and could be useful for monitoring and risk assessment purposes applying to environmental, health and contaminated soil samples.

Characteristics of latent damage trails due to high energy 208Pb and 238U ions in CR-39 and muscovite mica

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chohan, A.S.; Akhtar, S.M.

1988-01-01

Experiments have been performed to study the characteristics of latent damage trails produced by (a) 17.14 MeV/nucleon- 208 Pb ions in mica and CR-39 track detectors and (b) 13.7 MeV/nucleon- 238 U in CR-39 track detectors. The parameters studied include (a) V t , average etching velocity along the track, (b) thermal stability of the latent damage trails, (c) the total etchable ranges, and (d) V g the general etching velocity of CR-39 track detectors previously annealed at different temperatures. It has been observed that the latent damage trails in CR-39 are greatly affected at temperatures around 200 0 C in CR-39 track detectors. The general etching velocity of a CR-39 detector has been found to increase with increasing annealing temperatures. (author)

Photon-induced Fission Product Yield Measurements on 235U, 238U, and 239Pu

Science.gov (United States)

Krishichayan, Fnu; Bhike, M.; Tonchev, A. P.; Tornow, W.

2015-10-01

During the past three years, a TUNL-LANL-LLNL collaboration has provided data on the fission product yields (FPYs) from quasi-monoenergetic neutron-induced fission of 235U, 238U, and 239Pu at TUNL in the 0.5 to 15 MeV energy range. Recently, we have extended these experiments to photo-fission. We measured the yields of fission fragments ranging from 85Kr to 147Nd from the photo-fission of 235U, 238U, and 239Pu using 13-MeV mono-energetic photon beams at the HIGS facility at TUNL. First of its kind, this measurement will provide a unique platform to explore the effect of the incoming probe on the FPYs, i.e., photons vs. neutrons. A dual-fission ionization chamber was used to determine the number of fissions in the targets and these samples (along with Au monitor foils) were gamma-ray counted in the low-background counting facility at TUNL. Details of the experimental set-up and results will be presented and compared to the FPYs obtained from neutron-induced fission at the same excitation energy of the compound nucleus. Work supported in part by the NNSA-SSAA Grant No. DE-NA0001838.

(e,e'f) coincidence experiments for fission decay of giant resonances in 235,238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Weber, T.; Heil, R.D.; Kneissl, U.; Pecho, W.; Wilke, W.; Emrich, H.J.; Kihm, T.; Knoepfle, K.T.

1988-01-01

Extending previous work on 238 U, 235 U(e,e'f) coincidence data were taken at 4 momentum transfers yielding both E1, E2/E0 and E3 form factors and the respective multipole strength distributions in the giant resonance region of 238 U (4 x x /Γ a is obtained as a function of excitation energy for separated multipoles. The giant E2 resonance exhibits an increased symmetric fission contribution compared to E1 and E3 resonances. (orig.)

Measurements of 234U, 238U and 230Th in excreta of uranium-mill crushermen

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fisher, D.R.; Jackson, P.O.; Brodacynski, G.G.; Scherpelz, R.I.

1982-07-01

Uranium and thorium levels in excreta of uranium mill crushermen who are routinely exposed to airborne uranium ore dust were measured. The purpose was to determine whether 230 Th was preferentially retained over either 234 U or 238 U in the body. Urine and fecal samples were obtained from fourteen active crushermen with long histories of exposure to uranium ore dust, plus four retired crushermen and three control individuals for comparison. Radiochemical procedures were used to separate out the uranium and thorium fractions, which were then electroplated on stainless steel discs and assayed by alpha spectrometry. Significantly greater activity levels of 234 U and 238 U were measured in both urine and fecal samples obtained from uranium mill crushermen, indicating that uranium in the inhaled ore dust was cleared from the body with a shorter biological half-time than the daughter product 230 Th. The measurements also indicated that uranium and thorium separate in vivo and have distinctly different metabolic pathways and transfer rates in the body. The appropriateness of current ICRP retention and clearance parameters for 230 Th in ore dust is questioned

Precise measurement and calculation of 238U neutron transmissions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Olsen, D.K.; de Saussure, G.; Silver, E.G.; Perez, R.B.

1975-01-01

The total neutron cross section of 238 U has been measured above 0.5 eV in precise transmission experiments and results are compared with ENDF/B-IV. Emphasis has been on measuring transmissions through thick samples in order to obtain accurate total cross sections in the potential-resonance interference regions between resonances. 4 figures, 1 table

The estuarine chemistry and isotope systematics of 234,238U in the Amazon and Fly Rivers

Science.gov (United States)

Swarzenski, P.; Campbell, P.; Porcelli, D.; McKee, B.

2004-01-01

complexation reactions. In the Fly River estuary, 238U appears to exhibit a reasonably conservative distribution as a function of salinity. The absence of observed U removal does not necessarily imply non-reactivity, but instead may record an integration of concurrent U removal and release processes. There is not a linear correlation between ??234U vs. 1/ 238U that would imply simple two component mixing. It is likely that resuspension of bottom sediments, prolonged residence times in the lower reaches of the Fly River, and energetic particle-colloid interactions contribute to the observed estuarine U distribution. The supply of uranium discharged from humid, tropical river systems to the sea appears to be foremost influenced by particle/water interactions that are ultimately governed by the particular physiographic and hydrologic characteristics of an estuary. ?? 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The estuarine chemistry and isotope systematics of 234,238U in the Amazon and Fly Rivers

Science.gov (United States)

Swarzenski, Peter; Campbell, Pamela; Porcelli, Don; McKee, Brent

2004-12-01

complexation reactions. In the Fly River estuary, 238U appears to exhibit a reasonably conservative distribution as a function of salinity. The absence of observed U removal does not necessarily imply non-reactivity, but instead may record an integration of concurrent U removal and release processes. There is not a linear correlation between δ234U vs. 1/238U that would imply simple two component mixing. It is likely that resuspension of bottom sediments, prolonged residence times in the lower reaches of the Fly River, and energetic particle-colloid interactions contribute to the observed estuarine U distribution. The supply of uranium discharged from humid, tropical river systems to the sea appears to be foremost influenced by particle/water interactions that are ultimately governed by the particular physiographic and hydrologic characteristics of an estuary.

The Determination of the Half-Life of U{sup 238} by Absolute Counting of {alpha} Particles in a 4 {pi}-Liquid Scintillation Counter; Determination de la periode de l'U{sup 238} au moyen du comptage absolu de particules {alpha} dans un comtpeur 4 {pi} a scintillateur liquide; Opredelenie perioda poluraspadda U{sup 238} posredstvom absolyutnogo scheta {alpha}-chastits v zhidkostnom stsintillyatsionnom schetchike 4 {pi}; Determinacion del periodo del U{sup 238} por recuento absoluto de las particulas {alpha} con un contador 4 {pi} de centelleador liquido

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Steyn, J; Strelow, F W. E. [Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Pretoria (South Africa)

1960-06-15

The specific activity of natural uranium was determined by liquid scintillation {alpha}-counting. Uranium was extracted from its decay products by methyl isobutyl ketone extraction and samples of this solution were added directly to the liquid scintillator. A quantitative investigation was made of the separation of uranium from thorium by the extraction method employed. Assuming that U{sup 238} and U{sup 234} were in equilibrium, and correcting for the presence of U{sup 235}, the specific activity and the half-life of the isotope U{sup 238} were calculated. (author) [French] L'activite specifique de l'uranium naturel est determinee au moyen d'un comptage a par scintillateur liquide. L'uranium est separe de ses produits de desintegration par une extraction a la methylisobutylceton e et des echantillons de cette solution sont ajoutes directement au scintillateur liquide. On fait une etude quantitative de la separation de l'uranium et du thorium par le procede d'extraction utilise. En admettant que U{sup 238} et U{sup 234} sont en equilibre et en faisant la correction voulue pour tenir compte de la presence de U{sup 235}, on calcule l'activite specifique et la periode de U{sup 238}. (author) [Spanish] La actividad especifica del uranio natural se determino con un contador {alpha} de centelleador liquido. El uranio se separo de productes de desintegracion por extraccion con metilisobutilcetona, y muestras de esta solucion se anadieron directamente al centelleador liquido. Se estudio cuantitativament e el grado de separacion uranio/torio alcanzado con el metodo de extraccion empleado. Introduciendo correcciones para tener en cuenta la presencia de U{sup 235}, se calculo la actividad especifica y el periodo de semidesintegracio n del U{sup 238} suponiendo que este isotopo se encontraba en equilibrio con el U{sup 234}. (author) [Russian] Spetsificheskaya aktivnost' estestvennogo urana byla opredelena s pomoshch'yu zhidkostnogo stsintillyatsionnog o schetchika {alpha

Detection limit of 238U by gamma spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tartaglione, A.; Blostein, J.; Mayer, R

2004-01-01

The detection limit of 238 U was determined by gamma spectra measurements of a depleted uranium sample using four NaI(Tl) scintillators in a compact arrangement.The sample was shielded with 5 and 10 cm of lead.Two different methods for data processing were used and compared.It was established that an appropriate array of 40 detectors could establish the presence of 220 g of this material in only 5 minutes [es

Solubility of 238U radionuclide from various types of soil in synthetic gastrointestinal fluids using “US in vitro” digestion method

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rashid, Nur Shahidah Abdul; Sarmani, Sukiman; Majid, Amran Ab.; Mohamed, Faizal; Siong, Khoo Kok

2015-01-01

238U radionuclide is a naturally occuring radioactive material that can be found in soil. In this study, the solubility of 238U radionuclide obtained from various types of soil in synthetic gastrointestinal fluids was analysed by “US P in vitro” digestion method. The synthetic gastrointestinal fluids were added to the samples with well-ordered, mixed throughly and incubated according to the human physiology digestive system. The concentration of 238U radionuclide in the solutions extracted from the soil was measured using Induced Coupling Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS). The concentration of 238U radionuclide from the soil samples in synthetic gastrointestinal fluids showed different values due to different homogenity of soil types and chemical reaction of 238U radionuclide. In general, the solubility of 238U radionuclide in gastric fluid was higher (0.050 – 0.209 ppm) than gastrointestinal fluids (0.024 – 0.050 ppm). It could be concluded that the US P in vitro digestion method is practicle for estimating the solubility of 238U radionuclide from soil materials and could be useful for monitoring and risk assessment purposes applying to environmental, health and contaminated soil samples

Measurement and resonance analysis of neutron transmissions through four samples of 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Olsen, D.K.; de Saussure, G.; Perez, R.B.; Difilippo, F.C.; Ingle, R.W.

1977-01-01

Accurate total and partial cross sections for 238 U are important for nuclear reactor design. In the resolved resonance region, energies below 4.0 keV, these cross sections are described in terms of individual resonance parameters of which the neutron widths in the 1.5 to 4.0 keV region from various workers appear discrepant. In order to determine these widths, (0.880 to 100.0 keV) neutron transmissions through 0.076, 0.254, 1.080, and 3.620 cm thick enriched 238 U samples were measured, and (0.880 to 100.0 keV) range transmissions were analyzed

Biological availability of 238U, 234U and 226Ra for wild berries and meadow grasses in natural ecosystems of Belarus

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sokolik, G.A.; Ovsiannikova, S.V.; Voinikava, K.V.; Ivanova, T.G.; Papenia, M.V.

2014-01-01

This work is devoted to investigation of behavior of 234 U, 238 U and 226 Ra by determining the soil to plant transfer under different natural conditions such as forest or swamped areas and meadow lands with different soil types. The paper summarizes the data on investigation of uranium and radium uptake by wild berries and natural meadow grasses in the typical conditions of Belarus. Parameters characterizing the biological availability of 234 U, 238 U and 226 Ra for bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), lingonberry (Vaccinium viti-idaea), blueberry (Vaccinium iliginosum) and cranberry (Vaccinium oxycoccus palustris) as well as for widely occurring mixed meadow vegetation, which belongs to the sedge-grass or grass-sedge associations and forbs, have been established. In the sites under investigation, the deposition levels of 238+239+240 Pu were less than 0.37 kBq m −2 and 137 Cs deposition ranged between less than 0.37 and 37 kBq m −2 . It was found that activity concentrations of radionuclides in berries varied in the ranges of 0.037–0.11 for 234 U, 0.036–0.10 for 238 U and 0.11–0.43 Bq kg −1 for 226 Ra, but in the mixed meadow grasses they were 0.32–4.4, 0.24–3.9 and 0.14–6.9 Bq kg −1 accordingly. The 234 U/ 238 U activity ratios were 1.02 ± 0.01 for wild berries, 1.20 ± 0.09 for underground meadow grasses and 1.02 ± 0.02 for proper soils. The concentration ratios (CRs, dry weight basis) of 234 U and 238 U for mixed meadow grasses were 0.036–0.42 and 0.041–0.46 respectively. The correspondent geometric means (GM) were 0.13 and 0.15 with geometric standard deviations (GSD) of 2.4. The CRs of 226 Ra for meadow grasses were 0.031–1.0 with GM 0.20 and GSD 2.6. The CRs of 234 U, 238 U and 226 Ra for wild berries ranged within 0.0018–0.008 (GM is 0.0034, GSD is 1.8), 0.0018–0.008 (GM is 0.0035, GSD is 1.8) and 0.005–0.033 (GM is 0.016, GSD is 2.1) accordingly. The highest CR values of uranium for mixed meadow grasses were found in the sites

Radioactivity levels of 238U and 232Th, the α and β activities and associated dose rates from surface soil in Ulu Tiram, Malaysia

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Abdul Rahman, A.T.; Ramli, A.T.

2007-01-01

A survey was carried out to determine terrestrial gamma radiation dose rates, the concentration level of 238 U and 232 Th and α and β activities for the surface soil in Ulu Tiram, Malaysia. A 125 measurements were performed using a NaI(Tl) gamma-ray detector with crystal size of 1' x 1' on 15 soil samples collected from the site area about 102 km 2 . 238 U and 232 Th concentrations were determined in soils by using hyper pure germanium (HPGe) gamma-ray spectrometry. The activity of α and β from the surface soil was counted by using alpha beta counting system. The average value of 238 U and 232 Th concentrations in soil samples collected are 3.63±0.39 ppm within the range of 1.74±0.20 to 4.58±0.48 and 43.00±2.31 ppm within the range of 10.68±0.76 to 82.10±4.01 ppm, respectively. The average estimate of α and β activity in soil samples collected are 0.65±0.09 Bq x g -1 and 0.68±0.08 Bq x g -1 , respectively. The average of terrestrial gamma-radiation dose rates measured in Ulu Tiram was found to be 200 nGy x h -1 , within the range of 96 to 409 nGy x h -1 . The population weighted outdoor annual effective dose was 1.2 mSv. (author)

The distribution of {sup 236}U/{sup 238}U in the North Atlantic and adjacent oceans; Die Verteilung von {sup 236}U/{sup 238}U im Nordatlantik und den angrenzenden Ozeanen

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Christl, Marcus; Casacuberta, Nuria; Lachner, Johannes; Maxeiner, Sascha; Vockenhuber, Christof; Synal, Hans-Arno [Labor fuer Ionenstrahlphysik, ETH Zuerich (Switzerland); Herrmann, Juergen [Bundesamt fuer Seeschifffahrt und Hydroghraphie, Hamburg (Germany); Castrillejo, Maxi; Masque, Pere [Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona (Spain); Rutgers van der Loeff, Michiel [Alfred-Wegener-Institut, Bremerhaven (Germany)

2015-07-01

The technical developments of recent years, such as the introduction of helium as a stripping gas, make compact AMS systems probably among the most sensitive analyzers available for ultra-trace analyzes of actinides in the environment. Such systems are particularly suitable for the trace analysis of {sup 236}U since conventional mass spectrometry does not provide the necessary suppression of the substrate caused by molecules or neighboring masses. Over the past few years, unique data sets of {sup 236}U/{sup 238}U have been produced at the AMS System Tandy of the ETH Zurich in the Atlantic and Arctic Ocean as well as in the Mediterranean and the North Sea. This lecture will provide a brief overview of the latest technical developments in the field of heavy ion analysis at compact AMS plants at ETH Zurich. In the second part, the produced data sets are then assembled and the current understanding of this new ocean tracer discussed. [German] Die technischen Entwicklungen der letzten Jahre, wie zum Beispiel die Einfuehrung von Helium als stripper Gas, machen kompakte AMS Systeme wahrscheinlich zu den sensitivsten verfuegbaren Analysegeraeten fuer Ultra-Spurenstoffanalysen von Aktiniden in der Umwelt. Solche Systeme eignen sich im Besonderen zur Spurenanalyse von {sup 236}U, da konventionelle Massenspektrometrie hier nicht die erforderliche Unterdrueckung des durch Molekuele oder Nachbarmassen verursachten Untergrundes bietet. Am AMS System Tandy der ETH Zuerich wurden waehrend der letzten Jahre einzigartige Datensaetze von {sup 236}U/{sup 238}U im Atlantischen und Arktischen Ozean, sowie im Mittelmeer und der Nordsee produziert. In diesem Vortrag soll zunaechst ein kurzer Ueberblick ueber die neuesten technischen Entwicklungen im Bezug auf Schwerionen Analysen an kompakten AMS Anlagen der ETH Zuerich gegeben werden. Im zweiten Teil werden dann die produzierten Datensaetze zusammengefuegt und das gegenwaertige Verstaendnis dieses neuen Ozean-Tracers diskutiert.

Studies on {sup 232}Th and {sup 238}U levels in marine algae collected from the coast of Niigata Prefecture

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Kato, Kenji; Tonouchi, Shigemasa; Maruta, Fumiyuki; Ebata, Hidekazu [Niigata Prefectural Inst. of Public Health and Environmental Sciences (Japan)

2001-12-01

To evaluate the properties of algae to concentrate radioactive elements, 14 species of algae like Sargassum were collected in the Prefecture and analyzed for their {sup 232}Th and {sup 238}U levels with Yokogawa HP4500 ICP-MS apparatus. The places of collection included those near the water discharge of an atomic power station. Mean {sup 232}Th and {sup 238}U levels were found to be 120 and 260 ng/g dry wt, respectively, and Phaeophyta showed more than several times higher {sup 238}U level than Chlorophyta and Rhodophyta. There was no clear difference in {sup 232}Th levels. No difference between places of collection was observed in Sargassum {sup 232}Th or {sup 238}U level. Adsorption of {sup 232}Th particle to and incorporation of soluble {sup 238}U into algae body were suggested. Mean {sup 232}Th and {sup 238}U radioactivities were found 73 and 510 {mu}Bq/g wet wt, respectively, and the respective annual committed effective doses, 0.2 and 0.3 {mu}Sv, calculated from those values were confirmed to be enough lower than the annual public dose limit, 1 mSv. (K.H.)

Some physico-chemical and radiation properties of plutonium-238 metal prepared by electrochemical amalgamation

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Peretrukhin, V.F. [A.N. Frumkin Institute of Physical Chemistry and Electrochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 31 Leninsky Prospect, Moscow 119991 (Russian Federation)], E-mail: vperet@ipc.rssi.ru; Rovny, S.I. [Production Association ' Mayak' , 31 Prospect Lenin, Ozersk, Chelyabinsk Region 456784 (Russian Federation); Maslennikov, A.G. [A.N. Frumkin Institute of Physical Chemistry and Electrochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 31 Leninsky Prospect, Moscow 119991 (Russian Federation); Ershov, V.V.; Chinenov, P.P.; Kapitonov, V.I.; Kuvaev, V.L. [Production Association ' Mayak' , 31 Prospect Lenin, Ozersk, Chelyabinsk Region 456784 (Russian Federation)

2007-10-11

Pu-238 metal was prepared by electrolytic amalgamation from Pu(III) acetate aqueous solution and by followed by the thermal decomposition of the Pu amalgam. The density, specific heat power, {gamma}-spectra, neutron flux, and corrosion kinetics in dry air at ambient temperature of the prepared {sup 238}Pu metal were measured. The neutron flux and {gamma}-spectra from {sup 238}Pu metal have been attributed to spontaneous and induced fission and to ({alpha},{alpha}'{gamma}), ({alpha},p{gamma}), and ({alpha},n{gamma}) nuclear reactions on light nuclei. The electrochemically prepared {sup 238}Pu metal was shown to generate fewer neutrons, produce less gamma radiation, and contains lower {sup 10}B, {sup 19}F, and {sup 28}Si impurities in comparison with biomedical {sup 238}PuO{sub 2}. The increase of neutron flux from the sample due to the reaction {sup 18}O({alpha},n{gamma}) {sup 21}Ne was shown to be proportional to the increase of the mass of the {sup 238}Pu metal with time due to corrosion in dry air. {sup 238}Pu metal corrosion rate maximum and average values (1.1 x 10{sup -2} and 4.7 x 10{sup -3} mg cm{sup -2} h{sup -1}, respectively) obtained in dry air were an order of magnitude higher than the rates published for {sup 239}Pu under similar experiment conditions. The difference between the {sup 239}Pu and {sup 238}Pu metal corrosion rate and mechanism is proposed to be due to the greater radiation effects and temperature on the {sup 238}Pu surface.

Adsorption of Cs-137 and U-238 in semi-arid soils; Adsorcion de Cs-137 y U-238 en suelos semiaridos

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hernandez T, U. O. [Instituto Tecnologico de Toluca, Av. Tecnologico s/n, 52140 Metepec, Estado de Mexico (Mexico); Monroy G, F.; Anguiano A, J. [ININ, Carretera Mexico-Toluca s/n, 52750 Ocoyoacac, Estado de Mexico (Mexico); Fernandez R, E., E-mail: uohtrejo@gmail.com [Universidad Politecnica del Valle de Toluca, Carretera Toluca-Almoloya de Juarez Km. 5.6, Santiaguito Tlalcilalcali, Estado de Mexico (Mexico)

2013-10-15

Is of great importance to determine the adsorption properties of the soils where radioactive wastes are stored, fundamentally of the radioisotopes contained in these wastes, with the purpose of knowing like will be their behavior in the event of happening radionuclide migration toward the surrounding means. Therefore, in this work the adsorption properties of {sup 137}Cs{sup +} and {sup 238}UO{sub 2}{sup 2+} in soils coming from the Storage Center of Radioactive Wastes are studied. Was studied the effect of the soil type and the particle size of the soil in the adsorption properties of Cs (I) and U (Vi). 13 soil samples and six different particle sizes were analyzed. The adsorption studies were carried out by the radiotracers technique in static way. The results indicate an important adsorption affinity toward the Cs-137 and a very vulnerable affinity for the {sup 238}UO{sub 2}{sup 2+}. (author)

Solubility of {sup 238}U radionuclide from various types of soil in synthetic gastrointestinal fluids using “US in vitro” digestion method

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Rashid, Nur Shahidah Abdul; Sarmani, Sukiman; Majid, Amran Ab.; Mohamed, Faizal; Siong, Khoo Kok, E-mail: khoo@ukm.edu.my [School of Applied Physics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), 43600 Bangi, Selangor (Malaysia)

2015-04-29

238U radionuclide is a naturally occuring radioactive material that can be found in soil. In this study, the solubility of 238U radionuclide obtained from various types of soil in synthetic gastrointestinal fluids was analysed by “US P in vitro” digestion method. The synthetic gastrointestinal fluids were added to the samples with well-ordered, mixed throughly and incubated according to the human physiology digestive system. The concentration of 238U radionuclide in the solutions extracted from the soil was measured using Induced Coupling Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS). The concentration of 238U radionuclide from the soil samples in synthetic gastrointestinal fluids showed different values due to different homogenity of soil types and chemical reaction of 238U radionuclide. In general, the solubility of 238U radionuclide in gastric fluid was higher (0.050 – 0.209 ppm) than gastrointestinal fluids (0.024 – 0.050 ppm). It could be concluded that the US P in vitro digestion method is practicle for estimating the solubility of 238U radionuclide from soil materials and could be useful for monitoring and risk assessment purposes applying to environmental, health and contaminated soil samples.

Quasifree electrofission of 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Likhachev, V.P.; Deppman, A.; Hussein, M.S.; Mesa, J.; Arruda-Neto, J.D.T.; Carlson, B.V.; Nesterenko, V.O.; Garcia, F.; Rodriguez, O.

2002-01-01

We present the result of a theoretical study of the quasifree electrofission of 238 U. The exclusive differential cross sections for the quasifree scattering reaction stage have been calculated in plane wave impulse approximation, using a macroscopic-microscopic approach for the description of the proton bound states. The nuclear shape was parametrized in terms of Cassinian ovoids. The equilibrium deformation parameters have been calculated by minimizing the total nuclear energy. In the calculation the axially deformed Woods-Saxon single-particle potential was used. The obtained single-particle momentum distributions were averaged over the nuclear symmetry axis direction. The occupation numbers were calculated in the BCS approach. The fissility for the single-hole excited states of the residual nucleus 237 Pa was calculated on the statistical theory grounds, both without taking into account the preequilibrium emission of the particle and with preequilibrium emission in the framework of the exciton model

Doppler-free two-photon excitation of 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hodgkinson, D.P.; Wort, D.J.H.

1981-04-01

A theory of resonantly enhanced two-photon absorption is presented and tested in a number of experiments in which 238 U vapour is excited by two continuous wave dye lasers. Good quantitative agreement between theory and experiment is found. In particular the central prediction of the theory, that antiparallel laser beams of modest intensity can pump an appreciable fraction of the Maxwell velocity distribution, has been checked directly by measuring the spectral width of the fluorescence from the two-photon excited level. (author)

40 CFR 23.8 - Timing of Administrator's action under Uranium Mill Tailings Radiation Control Act of 1978.

Science.gov (United States)

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Timing of Administrator's action under Uranium Mill Tailings Radiation Control Act of 1978. 23.8 Section 23.8 Protection of Environment... Administrator's action under Uranium Mill Tailings Radiation Control Act of 1978. Unless the Administrator...

Studies of projectile-like fragments in the 16O + 238U reaction at 20 MeV/u

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dyer, P.; Awes, T.C.; Gelbke, C.K.; Back, B.B.; Mignerey, A.C.; Wolf, K.L.; Breuer, H.; Viola, V.E.; Meyer, W.G.

1979-01-01

Projectile residues were studied in coincidence with angle-correlated fission fragments resulting from reactions of 20-MeV/u 16 O ions on 238 U. Distributions of the missing parallel momentum are shown for different projectile residues, and the dependence of the average parallel recoil momentum on the average parallel momentum of the projectile residue is plotted. 2 figures

Research on the reliability of measurement of natural radioactive nuclide concentration of U-238

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Cha, Seok Ki; Kim, Gee Hyun [Dept. of Nuclear engineering, Univ. of SeJong, Seoul (Korea, Republic of); Joo, Sun Dong; Lee, Hoon [KoFONS, Seongnam (Korea, Republic of)

2016-12-15

Naturally occurred radioactive materials (NORM) can be found all around us and people are exposed to this no matter what they do or where they live. In this study, two indirect measurement methods of NORM U-238 has been reviewed; one that has used HPGe on the basis of the maintenance, and the other is disequilibrium theory of radioactive equilibrium relationships of mother and daughter nuclide at Decay-chain of NORM U-238. For this review, complicated pre-processing process (Breaking->Fusion->Chromatography->Electron deposit) has been used , and then carried out a comparative research with direct measurement method that makes use of and measures Alpha spectrometer. Through the experiment as above, we could infer the daughter nuclide whose radioactive equilibrium has been maintained with U-238. Therefore, we could find out that the daughter nuclide suitable to be applied to Gamma indirect measurement method was Th-234. Due to Pearson Correlation statistics, we could find out the reliability of the result value that has been analyzed by using Th-234.

Determination of specific concentrations of {sup 40}K, {sup 238}U and {sup 232}Th in mineral fertilizer samples

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Garcez, Ricardo W.D.; Lopes, Jose M.; Silva, Ademir X., E-mail: r.w.o.g@fisica.if.uff.br, E-mail: ademir@nuclear.ufrj.br [Coordenacao dos Programas de Pos-Graduacao em Engenharia (COPPE/UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil). Programa de Engenharia Nuclear; Domingues, Alessandro M.; Lima, Marco F. [Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF), Niteroi, RJ (Brazil)

2015-07-01

The use of fertilizer is an established practice worldwide to promote agricultural productivity increased without increasing the planted area, resulting in native forests protection and increase of the food availability. Some kinds of fertilizer have in their chemical composition some radionuclides due the origin of its feedstock, such as {sup 238}U, the {sup 232}Th, and their descendants, beyond {sup 40}K. Knowledge of the radioactivity levels in the environment is great importance to know the gamma radiation dose that the human being is exposed. For identification and quantitation of radionuclides, it was used gamma spectrometry where HPGe detector was used to obtain the spectra, and LabSOCS software for calculating the detection efficiency for each energy. The values of {sup 232}Th specific concentrations ranged from 4.1 to 368.1 Bq.Kg{sup -1}, the values of {sup 238}U specific concentrations ranged from 16.0 to 647.7 Bq.Kg{sup -1} and {sup 40}K specific concentrations ranged from 19.1 to 12713 Bq.Kg{sup -1}. Concentrations of values are consistent with those found in literature. (author)

Bioaccumulation of polonium ({sup 210}Po) and uranium ({sup 234}U, {sup 238}U) in plants around phosphogypsum waste heap in Wislinka (northern Poland)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Borylo, A.; Skwarzec, B. [Gdansk Univ. (Poland). Faculty of Chemistry

2011-07-01

In the study the activities of polonium {sup 210}Po and uranium {sup 234}U, {sup 238}U in plants, collected near phosphogypsum waste heap in Wis'linka (northern Poland), were determined by using the alpha spectrometry. The obtained results revealed that the concentrations of {sup 210}Po, {sup 234}U, and {sup 238}U in the analyzed plants were differentiated. In the analyzed flora organisms the highest amounts of polonium and uranium were found in ruderal plant samples as well as willow samples (Salix viminalis) from protection zone of phosphogypsum waste heap. The concentrations of {sup 210}Po, {sup 234}U and {sup 238}U in the analyzed plants were higher in roots than in green parts of plants. The higher concentrations of {sup 210}Po and {sup 238}U radionuclides were estimated for hydrophyte (common sedge Carex nigra Reichard), the favourite habitat of which is particularly wet meadow and for plants collected in the vicinity of phosphogypsum waste heap. The major source of polonium and uranium in analyzed plants is root system. The values of {sup 234}U/ {sup 238}U activity ratio in all analyzed plants are closed to one, what indicated that source of uranium in analyzed plants is phosphogypsum. The highest uranium and polonium concentrations were characterized for plants, which are covered with tomentose. The comparability polonium and uranium contents were confirmed in edible plants, but higher accumulation was determined in ripe species than immature species of vegetables. The higher polonium and uranium concentrations were noticed in green parts of plant, the lower in roots. Polonium concentration in cultivated plants samples was not species diverse. Therefore, the significant source of polonium and uranium in analyzed plants is wet and dry atmospheric falls gathering the soil and air dust from phosphogypsum waste dump. The maximum {sup 210}Po and {sup 238}U radionuclides concentrations were found in green parts of red beet (Beta vulgaris esculenta), the

Seawater 234U/238U recorded by modern and fossil corals

Science.gov (United States)

Chutcharavan, Peter M.; Dutton, Andrea; Ellwood, Michael J.

2018-03-01

U-series dating of corals is a crucial tool for generating absolute chronologies of Late Quaternary sea-level change and calibrating the radiocarbon timescale. Unfortunately, coralline aragonite is susceptible to post-depositional alteration of its primary geochemistry. One screening technique used to identify unaltered corals relies on the back-calculation of initial 234U/238U activity (δ234Ui) at the time of coral growth and implicitly assumes that seawater δ234U has remained constant during the Late Quaternary. Here, we test this assumption using the most comprehensive compilation to date of coral U-series measurements. Unlike previous compilations, this study normalizes U-series measurements to the same decay constants and corrects for offsets in interlaboratory calibrations, thus reducing systematic biases between reported δ234U values. Using this approach, we reassess (a) the value of modern seawater δ234U, and (b) the evolution of seawater δ234U over the last deglaciation. Modern coral δ234U values (145.0 ± 1.5‰) agree with previous measurements of seawater and modern corals only once the data have been normalized. Additionally, fossil corals in the surface ocean display δ234Ui values that are ∼5-7‰ lower during the last glacial maximum regardless of site, taxon, or diagenetic setting. We conclude that physical weathering of U-bearing minerals exposed during ice sheet retreat drives the increase in δ234U observed in the oceans, a mechanism that is consistent with the interpretation of the seawater Pb-isotope signal over the same timescale.

234Th/238U disequilibrium in near-shore sediment: particle reworking and diagenetic time scales

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Aller, R.C.; Cochran, J.K.

1976-01-01

The distribution of 234 Th (tsub(1.2)=24.1 days) in excess of its parent 238 U in the upper layers of near-shore sediment makes possible the evaluation of short-term sediment reworking and diagenetic rates. 234 Th has a maximum residence time in Long Island Sound water of 1.4 days. Seasonal measurement of 234 Th/ 238 U disequilibrium in sediment at a single station in central Long Island Sound demonstrates rapid particle reworking and high 234 Thsub(XS)(>1 dpm/g) in the upper 4 cm of sediment with slower, irregular reworking and low 234 Thsub(XS) to at least 12 cm. The rate of rapid particle reworking varies seasonally and is highest in the fall. The rapidly mixed zone is characterized by steep gradients in sediment chemistry implying fast reactions spanned by 234 Th decay time scales. 238 U is depleted in the upper mixed zone and shows addition in reducing sediment at depth. (Auth.)

Sensitivity analysis of U238 cross sections in fast nuclear systems-SENSEAV-R computer code

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Amorim, E.S. de; D'Oliveira, A.B.; Oliveira, E.C. de

1981-01-01

For many performance parameters of reactors the tabulated ratio calculation/experiment indicate that some potential problems may exist either in the cross section data or in the calculation models used to investigate the critical experimental data. A first step toward drawing a more definite conclusion is to perform a selective analysis of sensitivity profiles and covariance data files for the cross section data used in the calculation. Many works in the current literature show that some of these uncertainties come from uncertainties in 238 U(n,γ), 238 U(n,f) 239 Pu(n,f). Perturbation methods were developed to analyze the effects of finite changes in a large number of cross sections and summarize the investigation by a group dependent sensitivity coefficient. As an application, the results of this investigation indicates that improvements should be done only on the medium and low energy ranges of 238 U(n,γ) based on an analysis of cost and economic benefits. (Author) [pt

Application of the grey system theory for forecasting the content of 238U in soil near a uranium mine exhaust outlet

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ye Yongjun; Ding Dexin; Li Xiangyang; Zhou Xinghuo; Liu Dong

2008-01-01

In order to forecast the content of 238 U in soil near a uranium mine exhaust outlet, a general GM(1,1) forecasting model was established based on grey system theory, analyzing association degree and residual error distinction. According to the measuring datum of the content of 238 U in soil near a uranium mine exhaust outlet from 2001 to 2006, used the model to forecast the content of 238 U in soil, The results show that the forecasting value agrees with the measuring results and the forecasting precision is higher; at the same time the content of 238 U in soil in 2007 is also forecasted based on the model, the relative error was 4.8%; which shows the GM(1,1) forecasting model has higher practical value, and is a effective method for forecasting the content of 238 U in soil near a uranium mine exhaust outlet. (authors)

Determination of extremely low 236U/238U isotope ratios in environmental samples by sector-field inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry using high-efficiency sample introduction

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Boulyga, Sergei F.; Heumann, Klaus G.

2006-01-01

A method by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (Icp-Ms) was developed which allows the measurement of 236 U at concentration ranges down to 3 x 10 -14 g g -1 and extremely low 236 U/ 238 U isotope ratios in soil samples of 10 -7 . By using the high-efficiency solution introduction system APEX in connection with a sector-field ICP-MS a sensitivity of more than 5000 counts fg -1 uranium was achieved. The use of an aerosol desolvating unit reduced the formation rate of uranium hydride ions UH + /U + down to a level of 10 -6 . An abundance sensitivity of 3 x 10 -7 was observed for 236 U/ 238 U isotope ratio measurements at mass resolution 4000. The detection limit for 236 U and the lowest detectable 236 U/ 238 U isotope ratio were improved by more than two orders of magnitude compared with corresponding values by alpha spectrometry. Determination of uranium in soil samples collected in the vicinity of Chernobyl nuclear power plant (NPP) resulted in that the 236 U/ 238 U isotope ratio is a much more sensitive and accurate marker for environmental contamination by spent uranium in comparison to the 235 U/ 238 U isotope ratio. The ICP-MS technique allowed for the first time detection of irradiated uranium in soil samples even at distances more than 200 km to the north of Chernobyl NPP (Mogilev region). The concentration of 236 U in the upper 0-10 cm soil layers varied from 2 x 10 -9 g g -1 within radioactive spots close to the Chernobyl NPP to 3 x 10 -13 g g -1 on a sampling site located by >200 km from Chernobyl

Determination of extremely low (236)U/(238)U isotope ratios in environmental samples by sector-field inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry using high-efficiency sample introduction.

Science.gov (United States)

Boulyga, Sergei F; Heumann, Klaus G

2006-01-01

A method by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was developed which allows the measurement of (236)U at concentration ranges down to 3 x 10(-14)g g(-1) and extremely low (236)U/(238)U isotope ratios in soil samples of 10(-7). By using the high-efficiency solution introduction system APEX in connection with a sector-field ICP-MS a sensitivity of more than 5,000 counts fg(-1) uranium was achieved. The use of an aerosol desolvating unit reduced the formation rate of uranium hydride ions UH(+)/U(+) down to a level of 10(-6). An abundance sensitivity of 3 x 10(-7) was observed for (236)U/(238)U isotope ratio measurements at mass resolution 4000. The detection limit for (236)U and the lowest detectable (236)U/(238)U isotope ratio were improved by more than two orders of magnitude compared with corresponding values by alpha spectrometry. Determination of uranium in soil samples collected in the vicinity of Chernobyl nuclear power plant (NPP) resulted in that the (236)U/(238)U isotope ratio is a much more sensitive and accurate marker for environmental contamination by spent uranium in comparison to the (235)U/(238)U isotope ratio. The ICP-MS technique allowed for the first time detection of irradiated uranium in soil samples even at distances more than 200 km to the north of Chernobyl NPP (Mogilev region). The concentration of (236)U in the upper 0-10 cm soil layers varied from 2 x 10(-9)g g(-1) within radioactive spots close to the Chernobyl NPP to 3 x 10(-13)g g(-1) on a sampling site located by >200 km from Chernobyl.

Evaluation of daily intake of 238U and 232Th in a Korean mixed diet sample using RNAA

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chung, Yong Sam; Moon, Jong Hwa; Kim, Sun Ha; Park, Kwang Won; Kang, Sang Hoon; Cho, Seung Yeon

2000-01-01

To estimate the degree of intake of 238 U and 232 Th through daily diet, a Korean mixed diet sample was prepared after the investigation of the amount of consumption of the daily diet which corresponds to the age of 20 to 60 years. For the analysis of U and Th, the RNAA method was applied. Two standard reference materials were used for quality control and assurance and the analytical results were compared with a certified value. The determination of U and Th in the Korean mixed diet sample was carried out under the same analytical conditions and procedures with SRM. It is found that the concentration of U and Th in a Korean mixed diet was about 35.4 ppb and 3.4 ppb. From these results, the daily intake of 238 U and 232 Th by diet is evaluated to be 6.98 and 0.67 μg per day, respectively. Radioactivities related to the intake of 238 U and 232 Th were estimated to be about 86 mBq per person per day and the annual dose equivalents from 238 U and 232 Th revealed as 3.18 μSv and 0.29 μSv per person, respectively

Uranium isotopic ratio measurements ({sup 235}U/{sup 238}U) by laser ablation high resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry for environmental radioactivity monitoring - {sup 235}U/{sup 238}U isotope ratio analysis by LA-ICP-MS-HR for environmental radioactivity monitoring

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

David, K.; Mokili, M.B.; Rousseau, G.; Deniau, I.; Landesman, C. [SUBATECH, Ecole des Mines de Nantes, Universite de Nantes, CNRS/IN2P3, 4 rue Alfred Kastler, 44307 Nantes cedex 3 (France)

2014-07-01

The protection of the aquatic and terrestrial environments from a broad range of contaminants spread by nuclear activities (nuclear plants, weapon tests or mining) require continuous monitoring of long-lives radionuclides that were released into the environment. The precise determination of uranium isotope ratios in both natural and potential contaminated samples is of primary concern for the nuclear safeguards and the control of environmental contamination. As an example, analysis of environmental samples around nuclear plants are carried out to detect the traces in the environment originating from nuclear technology activities. This study deals with the direct analysis of {sup 235}U/{sup 238}U isotope ratios in real environmental solid samples performed with laser ablation (LA)-HR-ICP-MS. A similar technique has already been reported for the analysis of biological samples or uranium oxide particles [1,2] but to our knowledge, this was never applied on real environmental samples. The high sensitivity, rapid acquisition time and low detection limits are the main advantages of high resolution ICP-MS for accurate and precise isotope ratio measurements of uranium at trace and ultra-trace levels. In addition, the use of laser ablation allows the analysis of solid samples with minimal preparation. A a consequence, this technique is very attractive for conducting rapid direct {sup 235}U/{sup 238}U isotope ratio analysis on a large set of various matrix samples likely to be encountered in environmental monitoring such as corals, soils, sands, sediments, terrestrial and marine bio-indicators. For the present study, LA-ICP-MS-HR analyses are performed using a New Wave UP213 nano-second Nd:YAG laser coupled to a Thermo Element-XR high resolution mass spectrometer. Powdered samples are compacted with an hydraulic press (5 tons) in order to obtain disk-shaped pellet (10-13 mm in diameter and 2 mm in thickness). The NIST612 reference glass is used for LA-ICP-MS-HR tuning and as

232Th/238U in a uranium mobility estimate in an agricultural area in the municipality of Pedra-Pernambuco - Brazil

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Santos Junior, Jose Araujo dos; Amaral, Romilton dos Santos; Bezerra, Jairo Dias; Damascena, Kennedy Francys Rodrigues; Oliveira, Jose Valdez Monterazo de; Bispo, Rodrigo Cesar Bezerra; Silva, Cleomacio Miguel da; Rocha, Edilson Accioly

2011-01-01

The mobility of the radionuclides in soil depends primarily on the physic-chemical parameters. The uranium is easily oxidized in aqueous environment, which allows its characterization with higher mobility. The Thorium is practically insoluble, mainly if the environment has organic matter and sulfates. The geochemical characteristics of the rocks, associated with the weather and metamorphism produce alterations in the concentration diagrams of the natural radionuclides in different types of soil. The ratio 232 Th/ 238 U has been used as an indicator of oxidizing and reducing conditions. Th/U less than 2 suggests that the uranium is in its concentrated form abundantly when compared to the thorium. In reducing conditions, the value Th/U higher than 7 indicates a removal of the uranium. In this work it was possible to analyze the agricultural soil in the municipality of Pedra, Pernambuco, Brazil where there are uranium anomaly and thorium in rocky outcrops. Sixty-two samples of the horizon C soil were collected, in an area of 2 km 2 , where the main uranium occurrences are located. The analyses were done by High-Resolution Gamma-Spectroscopy. In the analyses the secular equilibrium was assumed and the 238 U and the 232 Th specific activities were used to estimate the oxidizing and reducing conditions defining the uranium mobility in the soil. The obtained findings show that the ratio Th/U varied from 0.3 to 13.4, with average of 4.6. The biggest 238 U fraction was fix (80.3%), with low mobility; the smallest fraction concentrated (6.6%) and a lixiviated intermediate fraction (13.1%). (author)

Contamination level of natural 238U and 232Th radionuclides in offshore of coal power plant (assessment at offshore of Panjang Island and Lada Bay, Banten)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sabam Parsaoran Situmorang; Harpasis Selamet Sanusi; June Mellawati

2011-01-01

This study had been carried out by collecting sample of the surficial sediments, sea water, seaweeds, anchovies (Stolephorus and Anchoa) and mussels (Codakia) from 4 locations in waters of Pulau Panjang and coastal of Lada Bay (as control/comparison site), Banten in June - July 2010. Natural radionuclides (Th) concentration in samples was measured using neutron activation analysis (NAA) method. The results showed that the total radionuclides concentration in sediment ( 238 U: 18.6160 - 35.0013 Bq/kg; 232 Th: 11.2020 - 35.6685 Bq/kg), seawater ( 238 U: undetected; 232 Th: 0.0790 - 0.1299 Bq/l), cultivation seaweeds ( 238 U: undetected; 232 Th: 3.6735 - 4.8345 Bq/kg), natural seaweeds ( 238 U: 3.6851 - 48.0430 Bq/kg; 232 Th: 3.9941 - 9.0788 Bq/kg), Stolephorus ( 238 U: undetected; 232 Th: 3.3078 Bq/kg) and Codakia ( 238 U: 6.8903 Bq/kg; 232 Th: 3.6023 Bq/kg) in Pulau Panjang, Banten around Suralaya coal power plant higher than control site that were around the Labuan coal power plant, namely in sediments ( 238 U: 10.4253 Bq/kg; 232 Th: 16.5952 Bq/kg), seawater( 238 U: undetected; 232 Th: 0.0671 Bq/l), cultivation seaweeds ( 238 U: undetected; 232 Th: 2.3005 Bq/kg), natural seaweeds ( 238 U: 19.5367 Bq/kg; 232 Th: 2.6729 Bq/kg) and Anchoa ( 238 U: undetected; 232 Th: 2.0603 Bq/kg). (author)

Uranium concentrations and 234U/238U activity ratios in fault-associated groundwater as possible earthquake precursors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Finkel, R.C.

1981-01-01

In order to assess the utility of uranium isotopes as fluid phase earthquake precursors, uranium concentrations and 234 U/ 238 U activity ratios have been monitored on a monthly or bimonthly basis in water from 24 wells and springs associated with Southern California fault zones. Uranium concentrations vary from 0.002 ppb at Indian Canyon Springs on the San Jacinto fault to 8.3 ppb at Lake Hughes well on the San Andreas fault in the Palmdale area. 234 U/ 238 U activity ratios vary from 0.88 at Agua Caliente Springs on the Elsinore fault to 5.4 at Niland Slab well on the San Andreas fault in the Imperial Valley. There was one large earthquake in the study area during 1979, the 15 October 1979 M = 6.6 Imperial Valley earthquake. Correlated with this event, uranium concentrations varied by a factor of more than 60 and activity ratios by a factor of 3 at the Niland Slab site, about 70 km from the epicenter. At the other sites monitored, uranium concentrations varied in time, but with no apparent pattern, while uranium activity ratios remained essentially constant throughout the monitoring period

Behaviour of {sup 238}U, {sup 234}U, {sup 228}Ra and {sup 226}Ra in rock alterations: study of Morungaba granitoids, SP-Brazil and ground water in its fractures; Comportamento de {sup 238}U, {sup 234}U, {sup 228}Ra e {sup 226}Ra na alteracao de rochas: estudo dos granitoides de Morungaba (SP) e aguas subterraneas de suas fraturas

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Santos, Rosana N. dos [Pontificia Univ. Catolica de Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil). Dept. de Fisica]. E-mail: rosana@pucsp.br; Marques, Leila S. [Sao Paulo Univ., SP (Brazil). Inst. de Astronomia, Geofisica e Ciencias Atmosfericas. Dept. de Geofisica]. E-mail: leila@iag.usp.br

2005-07-01

This work presents the first results obtained on the investigation of the behavior of uranium and radium radioisotopes in the processes of weathering and rock-water interaction of Morungaba granitoids belonging to Meridional Pluton (Valinhos Town-SP-Brazil). Specific activities of {sup 238}U, {sup 234}U, {sup 228}Ra and {sup 226}Ra were determined in non altered granitoids (Group A), as well as in those affected by different degrees of weathering (Groups B, C and D). The uranium specific activities were determined by alpha spectrometry method, whereas for the determination of radium isotopes high resolution gamma-ray spectrometry technique was employed. The data indicate that {sup 238}U and {sup 234}U are in radioactive equilibrium in the fresh analyzed granitoids, but show a slight depletion of {sup 234}U in relation to {sup 238}U in the weathered rocks. The ({sup 226}Ra/{sup 238}U) and ({sup 226}Ra/{sup 234}U) activity ratios of all investigated rocks are similar, showing a significant {sup 226}Ra depletion, which is probably caused by its preferential leaching. These results indicate that even samples macroscopically classified as fresh rocks, their systems have been opened for some geochemical changes. The high ({sup 234}U/{sup 238}U) activity ratios of groundwaters which are found in the fractures of these granitoids suggest their prolonged residence times in the aquifer and/or their percolation by other rocks presenting different geochemical properties. (author)

Ground water contamination with (238)U, (234)U, (235)U, (226)Ra and (210)Pb from past uranium mining: cove wash, Arizona.

Science.gov (United States)

Dias da Cunha, Kenya Moore; Henderson, Helenes; Thomson, Bruce M; Hecht, Adam A

2014-06-01

The objectives of the study are to present a critical review of the (238)U, (234)U, (235)U, (226)Ra and (210)Pb levels in water samples from the EPA studies (U.S. EPA in Abandoned uranium mines and the Navajo Nation: Red Valley chapter screening assessment report. Region 9 Superfund Program, San Francisco, 2004, Abandoned uranium mines and the Navajo Nation: Northern aum region screening assessment report. Region 9 Superfund Program, San Francisco, 2006, Health and environmental impacts of uranium contamination, 5-year plan. Region 9 Superfund Program, San Franciso, 2008) and the dose assessment for the population due to ingestion of water containing (238)U and (234)U. The water quality data were taken from Sect. "Data analysis" of the published report, titled Abandoned Uranium Mines Project Arizona, New Mexico, Utah-Navajo Lands 1994-2000, Project Atlas. Total uranium concentration was above the maximum concentration level for drinking water (7.410-1 Bq/L) in 19 % of the water samples, while (238)U and (234)U concentrations were above in 14 and 17 % of the water samples, respectively. (226)Ra and (210)Pb concentrations in water samples were in the range of 3.7 × 10(-1) to 5.55 × 102 Bq/L and 1.11 to 4.33 × 102 Bq/L, respectively. For only two samples, the (226)Ra concentrations exceeded the MCL for total Ra for drinking water (0.185 Bq/L). However, the (210)Pb/(226)Ra ratios varied from 0.11 to 47.00, and ratios above 1.00 were observed in 71 % of the samples. Secular equilibrium of the natural uranium series was not observed in the data record for most of the water samples. Moreover, the (235)U/(total)U mass ratios ranged from 0.06 to 5.9 %, and the natural mass ratio of (235)U to (total)U (0.72 %) was observed in only 16 % of the water samples, ratios above or below the natural ratio could not be explained based on data reported by U.S. EPA. In addition, statistical evaluations showed no correlations among the distribution of the radionuclide concentrations

Nonradiative excitation of the muonic atom 238U as an inverse conversion process

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Karpeshin, F.F.; Nesterenko, V.U.

1982-01-01

The probabilities of nonradiation nuclear excitation are calculated for different muon transitions in the muonic atom 238 U. Microscopic nuclear wave functions, obtained within the quasiparticle-phonon nuclear model and the muonic conversion coefficients have been used. The probability of nonradiation nuclear excitation for the muonic transitions 2p → 1s and 3p → 1s has been found to be equal to 0.3. It is predicted that nonradiative E3 transitions 3d → 2p can take place with the probability 0.08-0.10. The dynamic effect of nuclear structure on the probability of nonradiative nuclear excitation is taken into account. The estimates of 238 U fissility fission branching at nonradiation transitions are also obtained

Use of LabSOCS for determination of specific concentrations of 40K, 238U and 232Th in fertilizer samples

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Garcez, Ricardo Washington Dutra; Lopes, Jose Marques; Silva, Ademir Xavier da; Domingues, Alessandro Mariano; Lima, Marco Frota

2015-01-01

Use of fertilizer is an established practice worldwide to promote agricultural productivity increased without increasing the planted area, resulting in native forests protection and increase of the food availability. Some kinds of fertilizer have in their chemical composition some radionuclides due the origin of its feedstock, such as 238 U, the 232 Th, and their descendants, beyond 40 K. Knowledge of the radioactivity levels in the environment is great importance to know the gamma radiation dose that the human being is exposed. For identification and quantitation of radionuclides, it was used gamma spectrometry where HPGe detector was used to obtain the spectra, and LabSOCS software for calculating the detection efficiency for each energy. The values of 232 Th specific concentrations ranged from 4.1 to 368.1 Bq.Kg -1 , the values of 238 U specific concentrations ranged from 16.0 to 647.7 Bq.Kg -1 and 40 K specific concentrations ranged from 19.1 to 12713 Bq.Kg -1 . Concentrations of values are consistent with those found in literature. (author)

Two types of adakites revealed by 238U-230Th disequilibrium from Daisen volcano, southwestern Japan

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tokunaga, Saimi; Nakai, Shun'ichi; Orihashi, Yuji

2010-01-01

Daisen volcano is located on the Quaternary volcanic front in southwestern Japan. The volcano is composed mainly of andesite and dacite, which chemically resemble adakites, with high Al 2 O 3 and Sr/Y, steep REE patterns, and no negative Eu anomaly. ( 238 U/ 230 Th) disequilibrium (herein, a ratio in parentheses denotes the activity ratio) and trace element analyses of adakites from two volcanic domes, Karasugasen and Misen, indicate two adakite types. Adakite from Karasugasen is characterized by excess ( 230 Th) over ( 238 U), typical of most adakites, whereas adakite from Misen is characterized by excess ( 238 U) over ( 230 Th). The latter is consistent with enrichment in fluid-mobile elements relative to fluid immobile elements compared to rocks from Karasugasen. The values of ( 230 Th/ 232 Th) of adakites from Karasugasen and Misen are, respectively, around 0.75 and 0.81. These low ( 230 Th/ 232 Th) ratios result from the incorporation of subducted sedimentary material. The ratios, nevertheless, are higher than that for the estimate of lower crustal material suggesting significant incorporation of lower crust is unlikely. As adakites from Misen have ( 238 U) excess over ( 230 Th), adakite magma must have interacted with wedge mantle metasomatized by a slab-derived fluid, confirming the presence of a fluid-metasomatized mantle beneath Daisen volcano. (author)

Investigate the capability of INAA absolute method to determine the concentrations of 238U and 232Th in rock samples

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Alnour, I.A.

2014-01-01

This work aimed to study the capability of INAA absolute method in determining the elemental concentration of 238 U and 232 Th in the rock samples. The INAA absolute method was implemented in PUSPATI TRIGA Mark II research reactor, Malaysian Nuclear Agency (NM). The accuracy of INAA absolute method was performed by analyzing the IAEA certified reference material (CRM) Soil-7. The analytical results showed the deviations between experimental and certified values were mostly less than 10 % with Z-score in most cases less than 1. In general, the results of analysed CRM Soil-7 show a good agreement between certified and experimental results which mean that the INAA absolute method can be used accurately for elemental analysis of uranium and thorium in various types of samples. The concentration of 238 U and 232 Th ranged from 1.77 to 24.25 and 0.88 to 95.50 ppm respectively. The highest value of 238 U and 232 Th was recorded for granite rock sample G17 of 238 U and sample G9 of 232 Th, whereas the lower value was 1.77 ppm of 238 U recorded in sandstone rock and 0.88 ppm of 232 Th for gabbro. Moreover, a comparison of the 238 U and 232 Th results obtained by the INAA absolute method shows an acceptable level of consistency with those obtained by the INAA relative method. (author)

On uncertainties and fluctuations of averaged neutron cross sections in unresolved resonance energy region for 235U, 238U, 239Pu

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Van'kov, A.A.; Blokhin, A.I.; Manokhin, V.N.; Kravchenko, I.V.

1985-01-01

This paper analyses the reasons for the differences which exist between group-averaged evaluated cross-section data from different evaluated data files for U235, U238 and Pu239 in the unresolved resonance energy region. (author)

Fission Product Yields for 14 MeV Neutrons on 235U, 238U and 239Pu

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mac Innes, M.; Chadwick, M.B.; Kawano, T.

2011-01-01

We report cumulative fission product yields (FPY) measured at Los Alamos for 14 MeV neutrons on 235 U, 238 U and 239 Pu. The results are from historical measurements made in the 1950s–1970s, not previously available in the peer reviewed literature, although an early version of the data was reported in the Ford and Norris review. The results are compared with other measurements and with the ENDF/B-VI England and Rider evaluation. Compared to the Laurec (CEA) data and to ENDF/B-VI evaluation, good agreement is seen for 235 U and 238 U, but our FPYs are generally higher for 239 Pu. The reason for the higher plutonium FPYs compared to earlier Los Alamos assessments reported by Ford and Norris is that we update the measured values to use modern nuclear data, and in particular the 14 MeV 239 Pu fission cross section is now known to be 15–20% lower than the value assumed in the 1950s, and therefore our assessed number of fissions in the plutonium sample is correspondingly lower. Our results are in excellent agreement with absolute FPY measurements by Nethaway (1971), although Nethaway later renormalized his data down by 9% having hypothesized that he had a normalization error. The new ENDF/B-VII.1 14 MeV FPY evaluation is in good agreement with our data.

Radioactive Contamination of Alluvial Soils in the Taiga Landscapes of Yakutia with 137Cs, 226Ra, and 238U

Science.gov (United States)

Chevychelov, A. P.; Sobakin, P. I.

2017-12-01

The concentrations and distribution of 137Cs in alluvial soils (Fluvisols) of the upper and middle reaches of the Markha River in the northwest of Yakutia and 226Ra and 238U in alluvial soils within the El'kon uranium ore deposit in the south of Yakutia have been studied. It is shown that the migration of radiocesium in the permafrost-affected soils of Yakutia owing to alluviation processes extends to more than 600 km from the source of the radioactive contamination. The migration of 137Cs with water flows is accompanied by its deposition in the buried horizons of alluvial soils during extremely high floods caused by ice jams. In the technogenic landscapes of southern Yakutia, active water migration of 238U and 226Ra from radioactive dump rocks. The leaching of 238U with surface waters from the rocks is more intense than the leaching of 226Ra. The vertical distribution patterns of 238U and 226Ra in the profiles of alluvial soils are complex. Uranium tends to accumulate in the surface humus horizon and in the buried soil horizons, whereas radium does not display any definite regularities of its distribution in the soil profiles. At present, the migration of 238U and 226Ra with river water and their accumulation in the alluvial soils extend to about 30 km from the source.

High energy resolution measurement of the 238U neutron capture yield in the energy region between 1 and 100 keV

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Machlin, R.L.; Perez, R.B.; de Saussure, G.; Ingle, R.W.

1988-01-01

A measurement of the 238 U neutron capture yield was performed at the 150 meter flight-path of the ORELA facility on two 238 U samples (0.01224 and 0.0031 atomsbarn). The capture yeild data were normalized by Moxon's small resonance method. The energy resolution achieved in this measurement frequently resulted in doublet and triplet splittings of what appeared to be single resonance in previous measurements. This resolution should allow extension of the resolved resonance energy region in 238 U from the present 4-keV limit up to 15 or 20 keV incident neutron energy. Some 200 small resonances of the ( 238 U /plus/ n) compound nucleus have been observed which had not been detected in transmission measurement, in the energy range from 250 eV to 10 keV

Uranium ({sup 238}U)-induced ROS and cell cycle perturbations, antioxidant responses and erythrocyte nuclear abnormalities in the freshwater iridescent shark fish Pangasius sutchi

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Annamalai, Sathesh Kumar; Arunachalam, Kantha Deivi, E-mail: kanthad.arunachalam@gmail.com

2017-05-15

Highlights: • Exposure to {sup 238}U deteriorated the antioxidant defenses like SOD, CAT and LPO. • Flow cytometric analysis revealed the increase in G2/M phase and S phase. • Micronucleus frequencies increased with Increased {sup 238}U exposure and time. • Exposure to waterborne {sup 238}U induces both chemical and radiotoxicity in P. sutchi. • ROS-mediated {sup 238}U toxic mechanism and the antioxidant responses has been proposed. - Abstract: The strategic plan of this study is to analyze any possible radiological impact on aquatic organisms from forthcoming uranium mining facilities around the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam in the future. The predominantly consumed and dominant fish species Pangasius sutchi, which is available year-round at Nagarjuna Sagar Dam, was selected for the study. To comprehend the outcome and to understand the mode of action of {sup 238}U, the fish species Pangasius sutchi was exposed to ¼ and ½ of the LC{sub 50} doses of waterborne {sup 238}U in a static system in duplicate for 21 days. Blood and organs, including the gills, liver, brain and muscles, were collected at different time periods—0 h, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, 96 h, 7, days 14 days and 21 days—using ICP-MS to determine the toxic effects of uranium and the accumulation of {sup 238}U concentrations. The bioaccumulation of {sup 238}U in P. sutchi tissues was dependent on exposure time and concentration. The accumulation of uranium was, in order of magnitude, measured as gills > liver > brain > tissue, with the highest accumulation in the gills. It was observed that exposure to {sup 238}U significantly reduced antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and lipid peroxidase. The analysis of DNA fragmentation by comet assay and cell viability by flow cytometry was performed at different time intervals. DNA histograms by flow cytometry analysis revealed an increase in the G2/M phase and the S phase. The long-term {sup 238}U exposure studies in fish showed increasing

Determination of extremely low {sup 236}U/{sup 238}U isotope ratios in environmental samples by sector-field inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry using high-efficiency sample introduction

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Boulyga, Sergei F. [Institute of Inorganic Chemistry and Analytical Chemistry, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Duesbergweg 10-14, 55099 Mainz (Germany)]. E-mail: sergei.boulyga@univie.ac.at; Heumann, Klaus G. [Institute of Inorganic Chemistry and Analytical Chemistry, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Duesbergweg 10-14, 55099 Mainz (Germany)

2006-07-01

A method by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (Icp-Ms) was developed which allows the measurement of {sup 236}U at concentration ranges down to 3 x 10{sup -14} g g{sup -1} and extremely low {sup 236}U/{sup 238}U isotope ratios in soil samples of 10{sup -7}. By using the high-efficiency solution introduction system APEX in connection with a sector-field ICP-MS a sensitivity of more than 5000 counts fg{sup -1} uranium was achieved. The use of an aerosol desolvating unit reduced the formation rate of uranium hydride ions UH{sup +}/U{sup +} down to a level of 10{sup -6}. An abundance sensitivity of 3 x 10{sup -7} was observed for {sup 236}U/{sup 238}U isotope ratio measurements at mass resolution 4000. The detection limit for {sup 236}U and the lowest detectable {sup 236}U/{sup 238}U isotope ratio were improved by more than two orders of magnitude compared with corresponding values by alpha spectrometry. Determination of uranium in soil samples collected in the vicinity of Chernobyl nuclear power plant (NPP) resulted in that the {sup 236}U/{sup 238}U isotope ratio is a much more sensitive and accurate marker for environmental contamination by spent uranium in comparison to the {sup 235}U/{sup 238}U isotope ratio. The ICP-MS technique allowed for the first time detection of irradiated uranium in soil samples even at distances more than 200 km to the north of Chernobyl NPP (Mogilev region). The concentration of {sup 236}U in the upper 0-10 cm soil layers varied from 2 x 10{sup -9} g g{sup -1} within radioactive spots close to the Chernobyl NPP to 3 x 10{sup -13} g g{sup -1} on a sampling site located by >200 km from Chernobyl.

Measurement of Fragment Mass Distributions in Neutron-induced Fission of 238U and 232Th at Intermediate Energies

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Simutkin, V.D.

2008-01-01

Conceptual analysis of accelerator-driven systems assumes extensive use of nuclear data on neutron-induced reactions at intermediate energies. In particular, information about the fission fragment yields from the 238 U(n,f) and 232 Th(n,f) reactions is of particular interest at neutron energies from 10 to 200 MeV. However, there is a lack of such data for both 238 U and 232 Th. Up to now, the intermediate energy measurements have been performed for 238 U only, and there are no data for the 232 Th(n,f) reaction. The aim of the work is to provide such data. Fission fragment mass distributions for the 232 Th(n,f) and 238 U(n,f) reactions have been measured for the incident neutron energies 32.8 MeV, 45.3 MeV and 59.9 MeV. The experiments have been performed at the neutron beam facility of the Universite Catholique de Louvain, Belgium. A multi-section Frisch-gridded ionization chamber has been used as a fission fragment detector. The data obtained have been interpreted in terms of the multimodal random neck-rupture model (MMRNRM). (authors)

Sensitivity coefficients for the 238U neutron-capture shielded-group cross sections

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Munoz-Cobos, J.L.; de Saussure, G.; Perez, R.B.

1981-01-01

In the unresolved resonance region cross sections are represented with statistical resonance parameters. The average values of these parameters are chosen in order to fit evaluated infinitely dilute group cross sections. The sensitivity of the shielded group cross sections to the choice of mean resonance data has recently been investigated for the case of 235 U and 239 Pu by Ganesan and by Antsipov et al; similar sensitivity studies for 238 U are reported

Bioaccumulation of uranium 234U and 238U in marine birds

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Borylo, A.; Skwarzec, B.

2010-01-01

In the paper was presented results of our study about uranium 234 U and 238 U radioactivity in the marine birds samples, collected in the Polish area of the southern Baltic Sea. We chose 11 species of sea birds: three species permanently residing at southern Baltic, four species of wintering birds and three species of migrating birds. The obtained results indicated that uranium is very irregularly distributed in organs and tissues of marine birds. The highest uranium content is characterized in liver, rest of viscera and feathers, the smallest in skin and muscles. The uranium concentration was higher for carnivorous species (long-tailed duck (C. hyemalis), common eider (S. mollissima), lower for species eating fish (great cormorant (P. carbo), common guillemot (U. aalge), red-throated diver (G. stellata) and razorbill (A. tarda)), but the biggest amounts for herbivorous species [tufted duck (A. fuligula) and eurasian coot (F. atra)]. About 63-67% of uranium, which was located in feathers of two species of marine birds: razorbill (A. tarda) and long-tailed duck (C. hymealis), was apparently adsorbed, which suggests that uranium adsorption on the feathers may be an important transfer from air to water. (author)

238,234U contents on Lepomis Cyanellus from San Marcos dam located in a uraniferous area

Science.gov (United States)

Lares, Magaly Cabral; Luna-Porres, Mayra Y.; Montero-Cabrera, María E.; Renteria-Villalobos, Marusia

2014-07-01

Fish species are suitable biomonitors of radioisotopes in aquatic systems. In the present study, it was made the determination of uranium isotopic contents on fish fillet (Lepomis Cyanellus) from San Marcos dam which is located in uranium mineralized zone. Uranium activity concentrations (AC) in fish samples were obtained on wet weight (ww), using liquid scintillation. 238U and 234U AC in fish fillet ranged from 0.0004 to 0.0167 Bq kg-1, and from 0.0013 to 0.0394 Bq kg-1, respectively. The activity ratio (234U/overflow="scroll">238U) in fish fillet ranged from 2.2 to 8.8. Lepomis cyanellus from San Marcos dam shows bioaccumulation factor (FB) of 0.6 L kg-1. The results suggest that the Lepomis Cyanellus in environments with high U contents tends to have a greater bioaccumulation compared to others.

Database for 238U inelastic scattering cross section evaluation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kanda, Yukinori; Fujikawa, Noboru; Kawano, Toshihiko

1993-10-01

There are discrepancies among evaluated neutron inelastic scattering cross sections for 238 U in the evaluated nuclear data files, JENDL-3, ENDF/B-VI, JEF-2, BROND-2 and CENDL-2. Re-evaluating them is internationally being discussed to obtain the best outcome which can be accepted in common at the present by experts in the world. This report has been compiled to review the discrepancies among the evaluations in the present data files and to provide a common database for the re-evaluation work (author)

DEVELOPMENT OF ENRICHMENT VERIFICATION ASSAY BASED ON THE AGE AND 235U AND 238U ACTIVITIES OF THE SAMPLES

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

AL-YAMAHI, H.; EL-MONGY, S.A.

2008-01-01

Development of the enrichment verification methods is the backbone of the nuclear materials safeguards skeleton. In this study, the 235U percentage of depleted , natural and very slightly enriched uranium samples were estimated based on the sample age and the measured activity of 235U and 238U. The HpGe and NaI spectrometry were used for samples assay. A developed equation was derived to correlate the sample age and 235U and 238U activities with the enrichment percentage (E%). The results of the calculated E% by the deduced equation and the target E% values were found to be similar and within 0.58 -1.75% bias in the case of HpGe measurements. The correlation between them was found to be very sharp. The activity was also calculated based on the measured sample count rate and the efficiency at the gamma energies of interest. The correlation between the E% and the 235U activity was estimated and found to be linearly sharp. The results obtained by NaI was found to be less accurate than these obtained by HpGe. The bias in the case of NaI assay was in the range from 6.398% to 22.8% for E% verification

Uranium contents and {sup 235}U/{sup 238}U atom ratios in soil and earthworms in western Kosovo after the 1999 war

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Di Lella, L.A.; Nannoni, F.; Protano, G.; Riccobono, F. [Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali ' G. Sarfatti' -Sezione di Geochimica Ambientale, University of Siena, Via del Laterino 8, I-53100, Siena (Italy)

2005-01-20

The uranium content and {sup 235}U/{sup 238}U atom ratio were determined in soils and earthworms of an area of Kosovo (Djakovica garrison), heavily shelled with depleted uranium (DU) ammunition during the 1999 war. The aim of the study was to reconstruct the small-scale distribution of uranium and assess the influence of the DU added to the surface environment. The total uranium concentration and the {sup 235}U/{sup 238}U ratio of topsoils showed great variability and were inversely correlated. The highest uranium levels (up to 31.47 mg kg{sup -1}) and lowest {sup 235}U/{sup 238}U ratios (minimum 0.002147) were measured in topsoils collected inside, or very close to, the clusters of DU penetrator holes. Regarding the fractionation of uranium in the surface soils, the uranium concentrations in the soluble and exchangeable fractions increased as the total uranium concentration of the topsoils increased. High and rather uniform percentage contents of uranium (24-36%) were associated with the poorly crystalline iron oxide phases of soils. In the U-enriched soils the elevated levels of the element were probably due to the presence of very small, unevenly distributed oxidized DU particles. The total uranium concentration in earthworms was in the range 0.142-0.656 mg kg{sup -1}, with the highest concentrations in Lumbricus terrestris. The juveniles of all three studied species seemed to accumulate uranium more than adults, probably due to age-related differences in metabolism. The {sup 235}U/{sup 238}U ratio in the earthworms was variable (0.005241-0.007266) and independent of both the total uranium contents in soils and the absolute uranium levels in the animals. Bioconcentration was greater at lower U concentrations in soil, probably due to an increasing rate of elimination of uranium by the earthworms as the soil contents of the element increase. The results of this study clearly indicate that DU was added to the soil of the study area. Nevertheless, the phenomenon was

238 U, 232 Th and 40 K in wheat flour samples of Iraq markets

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Ali Abid Abojassim

2015-05-01

Full Text Available Introduction. Wheat flour is a nutritious type of food that is widely consumed by various age groups in Iraq. This study investigates the presence of long-lived gamma emitters in different type of wheat flour in Iraqi market. Materials and methods. Uranium (238 U, Thorium (232 Th and Potassium (40 K specific activity in (Bq/kg were measured in (12 different types of wheat flours that are available in Iraqi markets. The gamma spectrometry method with a NaI(Tl detector has been used for radiometric measurements. Also in this study we have calculated the internal hazard index, radium equivalent and absorbed dose rate in all samples. Results and discussion. It is found that the specific activity in wheat flour samples were varied from (1.086±0.0866 Bq/kg to (12.532±2.026 Bq/kg with an average (6.6025 Bq/kg for 238 U, For 232 Th From (0.126±0.066 Bq/kg to (4.298±0.388 Bq/kg with an average (1.9465Bq/kg and for 40 K from (41.842±5.875 Bq/kg to (264.729±3.843 Bq/kg with an average (133.097 Bq/kg. Also, it is found that the radium equivalent and the internal hazard index in wheat flour samples ranged from (3.4031 Bq/kg to (35.1523 Bq/kg with an average (19.6346 Bq/kg and from (0.0091 to (0.1219 with an average (0.0708 respectively. Conclusion. This study prove that the natural radioactivity and radiation hazard indices were lower than the safe.

Evaluation of fission cross sections and covariances for 233U, 235U, 238U, 239Pu, 240Pu, and 241Pu

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kawano, Toshihiko; Matsunobu, Hiroyuki; Murata, Toru

2000-02-01

A simultaneous evaluation code SOK (Simultaneous evaluation on KALMAN) has been developed, which is a least-squares fitting program to absolute and relative measurements. The SOK code was employed to evaluate the fission cross sections of 233 U, 235 U, 238 U, 239 Pu, 240 Pu, and 241 Pu for the evaluated nuclear data library JENDL-3.3. Procedures of the simultaneous evaluation and the experimental database of the fission cross sections are described. The fission cross sections obtained were compared with evaluated values given in JENDL-3.2 and ENDF/B-VI. (author)

Uranium ("2"3"8U)-induced ROS and cell cycle perturbations, antioxidant responses and erythrocyte nuclear abnormalities in the freshwater iridescent shark fish Pangasius sutchi

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Annamalai, Sathesh Kumar; Arunachalam, Kantha Deivi

2017-01-01

Highlights: • Exposure to "2"3"8U deteriorated the antioxidant defenses like SOD, CAT and LPO. • Flow cytometric analysis revealed the increase in G2/M phase and S phase. • Micronucleus frequencies increased with Increased "2"3"8U exposure and time. • Exposure to waterborne "2"3"8U induces both chemical and radiotoxicity in P. sutchi. • ROS-mediated "2"3"8U toxic mechanism and the antioxidant responses has been proposed. - Abstract: The strategic plan of this study is to analyze any possible radiological impact on aquatic organisms from forthcoming uranium mining facilities around the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam in the future. The predominantly consumed and dominant fish species Pangasius sutchi, which is available year-round at Nagarjuna Sagar Dam, was selected for the study. To comprehend the outcome and to understand the mode of action of "2"3"8U, the fish species Pangasius sutchi was exposed to ¼ and ½ of the LC_5_0 doses of waterborne "2"3"8U in a static system in duplicate for 21 days. Blood and organs, including the gills, liver, brain and muscles, were collected at different time periods—0 h, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, 96 h, 7, days 14 days and 21 days—using ICP-MS to determine the toxic effects of uranium and the accumulation of "2"3"8U concentrations. The bioaccumulation of "2"3"8U in P. sutchi tissues was dependent on exposure time and concentration. The accumulation of uranium was, in order of magnitude, measured as gills > liver > brain > tissue, with the highest accumulation in the gills. It was observed that exposure to "2"3"8U significantly reduced antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and lipid peroxidase. The analysis of DNA fragmentation by comet assay and cell viability by flow cytometry was performed at different time intervals. DNA histograms by flow cytometry analysis revealed an increase in the G2/M phase and the S phase. The long-term "2"3"8U exposure studies in fish showed increasing micronucleus frequencies in

Investigating Uranium Mobility Using Stable Isotope Partitioning of 238U/235U and a Reactive Transport Model

Science.gov (United States)

Bizjack, M.; Johnson, T. M.; Druhan, J. L.; Shiel, A. E.

2015-12-01

We report a numerical reactive transport model which explicitly incorporates the effectively stable isotopes of uranium (U) and the factors that influence their partitioning in bioactive systems. The model reproduces trends observed in U isotope ratios and concentration measurements from a field experiment, thereby improving interpretations of U isotope ratios as a tracer for U reactive transport. A major factor contributing to U storage and transport is its redox state, which is commonly influenced by the availability of organic carbon to support metal-reducing microbial communities. Both laboratory and field experiments have demonstrated that biogenic reduction of U(VI) fractionates the stable isotope ratio 238U/235U, producing an isotopically heavy solid U(IV) product. It has also been shown that other common reactive transport processes involving U do not fractionate isotopes to a consistently measurable level, which suggests the capacity to quantify the extent of bioreduction occurring in groundwater containing U using 238U/235U ratios. A recent study of a U bioremediation experiment at the Rifle IFRC site (Colorado, USA) applied Rayleigh distillation models to quantify U stable isotope fractionation observed during acetate amendment. The application of these simplified models were fit to the observations only by invoking a "memory-effect," or a constant source of low-concentration, unfractionated U(VI). In order to more accurately interpret the measured U isotope ratios, we present a multi-component reactive transport model using the CrunchTope software. This approach is capable of quantifying the cycling and partitioning of individual U isotopes through a realistic network of transport and reaction pathways including reduction, oxidation, and microbial growth. The model incorporates physical heterogeneity of the aquifer sediments through zones of decreased permeability, which replicate the observed bromide tracer, major ion chemistry, U concentration, and U

Investigation of fission properties and evaporation residue measurement in the reactions using 238U target nucleus

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Saro S.

2011-10-01

Full Text Available Fragment mass distributions for fission after full momentum transfer were measured in the reactions of 30Si,34,36 S,31P,40Ar + 238U at bombarding energies around the Coulomb barrier. Mass distributions change significantly as a function of incident beam energy. The asymmetric fission probability increases at sub-barrier energy. The phenomenon is interpreted as an enhanced quasifission probability owing to orientation effects on fusion and/or quasifission. The evaporation residue (ER cross sections were measured in the reactions of 30Si + 238U and 34S + 238U to obtain information on fusion. In the latter reaction, significant suppression of fusion was implied. This suggests that fission events different from compound nucleus are included in the masssymmetric fragments. The results are supported by a model calculation based on a dynamical calculation using Langevin equation, in which the mass distribution for fusion-fission and quasifission fragments are separately determined.

Sequential fission process observed in the reaction (16.7 MeV/u) 238U + nat.Au using mica as dielectric track detector

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shahzad, Muhammad Ikram; Qureshi, Imtinan Elahi; Manzoor, Shahid; Khan, Hameed Ahmed

1999-01-01

The evidence of sequential fission has been found in the heavy-ion reaction (16.7 MeV/u) 238 U + nat. Au, using muscovite mica as Dielectric Track Detector (DTD) placed in a 2π-geometry configuration. The reaction products originating from the interactions of 238 U ions with the atoms of gold were registered in the detector in the form of tracks and identified for performing a detailed kinematical analysis. For this purpose the spherical polar coordinates of the correlated tracks of the multipronged events have been analyzed on an event-by-event basis. Automatic, semi-automatic and manual measuring methods have been employed to collect and manipulate the track data. The known characteristics of binary and ternary events observed in the reaction have been used for the calibration of the detectors. The computed masses, Q-values and relative velocities of the reaction products determined in this analysis are compared with theoretical predictions based on sequential fission process. Agreement within one standard deviation with respect to the experimental values has been found for the majority of analyzed events. Therefore, it is concluded that three particles in the exit channel of the reaction are produced in two successive steps. In the first step of the reaction, two intermediate nuclei are formed as a result of an inelastic collision between projectile and target atoms while in the second step the fission of one of the intermediate nuclei of the previous step takes place. Furthermore no proximity effects have been observed

Measurement of nuclide cross-sections of spallation residues in 1 A GeV 238U + proton collisions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Taieb, J.; Tassan-Got, L.; Bernas, M.; Mustapha, B.; Rejmund, F.; Stephan, C.; Schmidt, K.H.; Armbruster, P.; Benlliure, J.; Enqvist, T.; Boudard, A.; Legrain, R.; Leray, S.; Volant, C.; Wlazlo, W.; Casarejos, E.; Czajkowski, S.; Pravikoff, M.

2003-02-01

The production of heavy nuclides from the spallation-evaporation reaction of 238 U induced by 1 GeV protons was studied in inverse kinematics. The evaporation residues from tungsten to uranium were identified in-flight in mass and atomic number. Their production cross-sections and their momentum distributions were determined. The data are compared with empirical systematics. A comparison with previous results from the spallation of 208 Pb and 197 Au reveals the strong influence of fission in the spallation of 238 U. (orig.)

232-Th and 238-U radioactive contaminations of sediments along the South China Sea of East Coast Peninsular Malaysia by INAA

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Khadijeh Rezaee Ebrahim Saraee; Elias Saion; Naghavi, K.

2009-01-01

The concentrations of 232 Th and 238 U were determined in 30 sediment samples, collected from the South China Sea bed of the east coast peninsular Malaysia. The samples were dried in an oven for 10 days at 65 C and stored in polyethylene bottles for future analysis. INAA used to analyse surficial sediments. The 232 Th and 238 U activities in surficial sediments determined. These activities increased from 14.02 to 30.17 Bq Kg -1 and from 47.49 to 113.69 Bq Kg -1 for 232 Th and 238 U , respectively. Results show diffuse distribution of 232 Th and 238 U actinides in studied area. The Th/Sc and U/Sc ratios of the suricial sediments have same distribution and the highest their values are in station EC12. The radioactive contamination of the investigated sector is compared with the results obtained of other coastal sediments of Malaysia. Results show activity contamination in coastal sediments of the South China Sea is lower than the Straits of Malacca and is the same with the Straits of Johor. (Author)

Measurement of the 238U subthreshold fission cross section for incident neutron energies between 0.6 and 100 keV

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Difilippo, F.C.; Perez, R.B.; de Saussure, G.; Olsen, D.K.; Ingle, R.W.

1977-01-01

The neutron-induced 238 U subthreshold fission cross section has been measured in the neutron energy range between 0.6 and 100 keV. A total of 28 fission clusters were identified. The well-known clusters at 721 and 1210 eV appeared resolved into their Class I components. Average 238 U subthreshold fission cross sections were determined and compared with available results in the literature. The measurement is interpreted in terms of fission doorway (Class II levels) arising from the assumption of the existence of a double-humped fission barrier for the ( 238 U + n) compound nucleus at large deformations. On the basis of this model, several fission barrier parameters were determined

Accurate 238U(n , 2 n )237U reaction cross-section measurements from 6.5 to 14.8 MeV

Science.gov (United States)

Krishichayan, Bhike, M.; Tornow, W.; Tonchev, A. P.; Kawano, T.

2017-10-01

The cross section for the 238U(n ,2 n )237U reaction has been measured in the incident neutron energy range from 6.5 to 14.8 MeV in small energy steps using an activation technique. Monoenergetic neutron beams were produced via the 2H(d ,n )3He and 3H(d ,n )4He reactions. 238U targets were activated along with Au and Al monitor foils to determine the incident neutron flux. The activity of the reaction products was measured in TUNL's low-background counting facility using high-resolution γ -ray spectroscopy. The results are compared with previous measurements and latest data evaluations. Statistical-model calculations, based on the Hauser-Feshbach formalism, have been carried out using the CoH3 code and are compared with the experimental results. The present self-consistent and high-quality data are important for stockpile stewardship and nuclear forensic purposes as well as for the design and operation of fast reactors.

Effect of 222Rn emanation from crystals on their 206Pb/238U age dating

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Barretto, Paulo M.C.

2009-01-01

The escape of radon from certain minerals with high uranium is of particular interest to those concerned with the determination of ages of rocks, minerals and tectonic events. To the extent that radon escapes, these minerals are not closed systems from the thermodynamic point of view and, more particularly, from the geochronological point of view. This investigation aimed to determine the radon escape from zircon crystals and how this fit into the severe isotopic constraints of the concordia dating model. To evaluate the consequences of radon loss on 238 U/ 206 Pb age dating methods, 20 zircon concentrates were analyzed. The observed range of relative percentage of radon loss was of 0.2-12 % and correlations with weathering of the crystals with natural alpha dose and with U-Pb age discordances were found. These correlations indicate relationships between the amount of lattice damage by radiation, the radon leakage out of the crystal and Pb mobility. Some of the stochastic complexities in specific age determinations are also discussed. (author)

238U-230Th-226Ra radioactive disequilibria in the products from 1707 eruption of Fuji volcano, Japan

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kurihara, Yuichi; Takahashi, Masaomi; Sato, Jun

2008-01-01

Time scale of magmatic processes in the 1707 eruptive activity of Fuji volcano, Japan, was estimated by the 238 U- 230 Th- 226 Ra disequilibria observed in the 1707 volcanic products. The activity ratios of 226 Ra/ 230 Th in the products were larger than unity, being enriched in 226 Ra relative to 230 Th. The decay-corrected 226 Ra/ 230 Th activity ratio to the time of the eruption versus 238 U/ 230 Th activity ratio diagram for the 1707 volcanic products showed a positive correlation, suggesting that the 238 U/ 230 Th- 226 Ra disequilibria occurred during the magma genesis of Fuji volcano. The 230 Th- 226 Ra disequilibria in the 1707 volcanic products suggested that the time scale from the magma genesis to the eruption, including the melting of the mantle wedge, magma storage and magmatic differentiation from basalt to andesite, was less than 8000 years. (author)

Resonance parameters of the 6.67-, 20.9-, and 36.8-eV levels in 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Olsen, D.K.; de Saussure, G.; Perez, R.B.; Difilippo, F.C.

1976-01-01

The ENDF/B-IV 238 U cross sections (MAT-1262) yield an effective capture resonance integral in strongly self-shielded situations which is too high. This situation suggests that the ENDF/B capture widths for the first few s-wave levels may be too large. Recent ORELA measurements of transmission through 238 U have been analyzed with a multilevel formula to determine the parameters of the 6.67-, 20.9-, and 36.6-eV levels. These three levels provide 86 percent of the infinitely dilute capture resonance integral

Reactive transport of uranium in a groundwater bioreduction study: Insights from high-temporal resolution 238U/235U data

Science.gov (United States)

Shiel, A. E.; Johnson, T. M.; Lundstrom, C. C.; Laubach, P. G.; Long, P. E.; Williams, K. H.

2016-08-01

We conducted a detailed investigation of U isotopes in conjunction with a broad geochemical investigation during field-scale biostimulation and desorption experiments. This investigation was carried out in the uranium-contaminated alluvial aquifer of the Rifle field research site. In this well-characterized setting, a more comprehensive understanding of U isotope geochemistry is possible. Our results indicate that U isotope fractionation is consistently observed across multiple experiments at the Rifle site. Microbially-mediated reduction is suggested to account for most or all of the observed fractionation as abiotic reduction has been demonstrated to impart much smaller, often near-zero, isotopic fractionation or isotopic fractionation in the opposite direction. Data from some time intervals are consistent with a simple model for transport and U(VI) reduction, where the fractionation factor (ε = +0.65‰ to +0.85‰) is consistent with experimental studies. However, during other time intervals the observed patterns in our data indicate the importance of other processes in governing U concentrations and 238U/235U ratios. For instance, we demonstrate that departures from Rayleigh behavior in groundwater systems arise from the presence of adsorbed species. We also show that isotope data are sensitive to the onset of oxidation after biostimulation ends, even in the case where reduction continues to remove contaminant uranium downstream. Our study and the described conceptual model support the use of 238U/235U ratios as a tool for evaluating the efficacy of biostimulation and potentially other remedial strategies employed at Rifle and other uranium-contaminated sites.

New evaluation of 238U neutron resonance parameters

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Derrien, Herve; Leal, Luiz C.; Larson, Nancy M.

2003-01-01

The neutron resonance parameters of 238 U were obtained in the energy range 1 keV to 20 keV from a SAMMY Reich-Moore analysis of high resolution transmission measurements performed at ORELA. In the energy range 1 keV to 10 keV, the analysis used as prior values the ENDF/B-VI resonance parameters. The analysis in the energy range 10 keV to 20 keV resulted in the creation of a set of resonance parameters for the representation of the cross section in this energy range. The results are compared to the ENDF/B-VI evaluation. Some statistical properties of the new resonance parameters are examined. (author)

The evaluation for reference fission yield of 238U fission

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Liang Qichang; Liu Tingjin

1998-01-01

In the fission yield data evaluation and measurement, the reference yield is very important, good or poor recommended or measurement values depend upon the reference data to a great extent. According to the CRP's requirement, the evaluation of reference fission yields have been and will be carried out in CNDC, as a part of the whole work (contract No.9504/R 0 /Regular Budget Fund), the evaluation for 29 reference fission yields of 15 product nuclides from 238 U fission have been completed

Investigation of the 234U/238U disequilibrium in the natural waters of the Santa Fe River basin north-central Florida

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Briel, L.I.

1976-01-01

Typical surface water masses in the Santa Fe basin are characterized by a 238 U concentration of 0.224 +- .014 ppB and a 234 U/ 238 U activity ratio of 1.081 +- .038. The Floridan aquifer in this area is represented by at least two distinct regimes of ground water. The effluent from the Poe Springs group has a nominal uranium concentration of 0.938 +- .014 ppB and an activity ratio of 0.900 +- .012, while the effluent from the Ichetucknee Springs group has a nominal uranium concentration of 0.558 +- .018 ppB and an activity ratio of 0.707 +- .022. The effluent from ten additional springs in the Santa Fe system can be represented by hypothetical mixtures of these two ground water regimes and a hypothetical surface water component, which may reflect the extent of local recharge to the aquifer in different parts of the basin

Origin and geochemical behavior of uranium in marine sediments. Utilization of the {sup 234}U/{sup 238}U ratio in marine geochemistry; Origine et comportement geochimique de l`uranium dans les sediments marins. Utilisation du rapport ({sup 234}U/{sup 238}U) en geochimie marine

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Organo, Catherine [Paris-11 Univ., 91 - Orsay (France)

1997-01-20

The first part of this thesis presents the current situation of knowledge of uranium in marine environment. The second part describes the methods of analysis as well as the material support of the study, i.e., the sediments and marine deposits investigated. The third part is dedicated to the study of uranium mobility in marine sediments characterized by detrital terrigenous composition (pelagic clays). This approach allowed quantifying the entering and leaving flux of uranium after the sediment settling and, to discuss, on this basis, the consequences on the uranium oceanic balance. In the third part the origin and behavior of uranium in zones of high surface productivity is studied. The uranium enrichments observed in the hemi-pelagic sediments of the EUMELI (J.G.O.F.S.-France) programme will constitute a material of study adequate for measuring the variations in the {sup 234}U/2{sup 38U} ratio in solid phase, in response to the oxido-reducing characteristics of the sediment. Thus establishing the origin of the trapped uranium has been possible. Also, the nature of the sedimentary phases related to uranium in bio-genetic sediments in the Austral Ocean was determined. Thus a relationship between the variations in the {sup 234}U/{sup 238} and the diagenetic transformations was possible to establish. Finally in the fifth part a study of the behavior of uranium in a polymetallic shell characteristic for deposits of hydrogenized origin 146 refs., 57 figs., 23 tabs.

Evaluation of the 238U neutron total cross section

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Smith, A.; Poenitz, W.P.; Howerton, R.J.

1982-12-01

Experimental energy-averaged neutron total cross sections of 238 U were evaluated from 0.044 to 20.0 MeV using regorous numerical methods. The evaluated results are presented together with the associated uncertainties and correlation matrix. They indicate that this energy-averaged neutron total cross section is known to better than 1% over wide energy regions. There are somwewhat larger uncertainties at low energies (e.g., less than or equal to 0.2 MeV), near 8 MeV and above 15 MeV. The present evaluation is compard with values given in ENDF/B-V

Angular distribution of fragments from neutron-induced fission of 238U in the intermediate energy region

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Carlsson, Magnus

2004-06-01

Areas ranging from nuclear structure models to accelerator-driven systems benefit from improved neutron-induced fission data in the intermediate energy region. In this Master's degree thesis, the fragment angular distribution from fission of 238 U, induced by 21-MeV neutrons, has been analysed from an experiment performed with the Medley/DIFFICILE setup at the The Svedberg Laboratory in Uppsala. The data have been corrected for low energy neutrons in the beam. The results agree with other experiments, as well as with model calculations. The data should be a starting point for further analysis with a goal to deduce the fission cross-section of 238 U

Trace element distribution and 235U/238U ratios in Euphrates waters and in soils and tree barks of Dhi Qar province (southern Iraq)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Riccobono, Francesco; Perra, Guido; Pisani, Anastasia; Protano, Giuseppe

2011-01-01

To assess the quality of the environment in southern Iraq after the Gulf War II, a geochemical survey was carried out. The survey provided data on the chemistry of Euphrates waters, as well as the trace element contents, U and Pb isotopic composition, and PAH levels in soil and tree bark samples. The trace element concentrations and the 235 U/ 238 U ratio values in the Euphrates waters were within the usual natural range, except for the high contents of Sr due to a widespread presence of gypsum in soils of this area. The trace element contents in soils agreed with the common geochemistry of soils from floodplain sediments. Some exceptions were the high contents of Co, Cr and Ni, which had a natural origin related to ophiolitic outcrops in the upper sector of the Euphrates basin. The high concentrations of S and Sr were linked to the abundance of gypsum in soils. A marked geochemical homogeneity of soil samples was suggested by the similar distribution pattern of rare earth elements, while the 235 U/ 238 U ratio was also fairly homogeneous and within the natural range. The chemistry of the tree bark samples closely reflected that of the soils, with some notable exceptions. Unlike the soils, some tree bark samples had anomalous values of the 235 U/ 238 U ratio due to mixing of depleted uranium (DU) with the natural uranium pool. Moreover, the distribution of some trace elements (such as REEs, Th and Zr) and the isotopic composition of Pb in barks clearly differed from those of the nearby soils. The overall results suggested that significant external inputs occurred implying that once formed the DU-enriched particles could travel over long distances. The polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon concentrations in tree bark samples showed that phenanthrene, fluoranthene and pyrene were the most abundant components, indicating an important role of automotive traffic. - Highlights: → This is a contribution to the knowledge of the Iraqi environment after Gulf War II. → In

Transfer Rates of 238U and 232Th for E. globulus, A. mearnsii, H. filipendula and Hazardous Effects of the Usage of Medicinal Plants From Around Gold Mine Dump Environs

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Victor M. Tshivhase

2015-12-01

Full Text Available Medicinal plant consumption can be a source of human exposure to radioactive elements such as 238U and 232Th, which can lead to internal radiation doses. The uptake of 238U and 232Th from soils to the leaf samples of three different medicinal plant species (Eucalyptus globulus, Acacia mearnsii and Hyparrhenia filipendula from the purlieu of the Princess gold mine dump, an abandoned contaminated tailings storage site (TSS, located at longitude 27°55′00″E and latitude 26°09′30″S in Davidsonville (Roodepoort, west of Johannesburg, South Africa was measured. This was done using ICP-MS spectrometry and substantial differences were observed in the soil-plant transfer factor (TF values between these radionuclides. The plant species E. globulus exhibited the highest uptake of 238U, with an average TF of 3.97, while that of H. filipendula was 0.01 and the lowest TF of 0.15 × 10−2 was measured for A. mearnsii. However, in the case of 232Th, the highest average TF was observed for A. mearnsii (0.29, followed by E. globulus (0.10 and lowest was measured for H. filipendula (0.27 × 10−2. The ratio of TF average value i.e., 238U to 232Th in the soil-plant leaves was 38.05 for E. globulus, 0.01 for A. mearnsii and 4.38 for H. filipendula.

Transfer Rates of 238U and 232Th for E. globulus, A. mearnsii, H. filipendula and Hazardous Effects of the Usage of Medicinal Plants From Around Gold Mine Dump Environs

Science.gov (United States)

Tshivhase, Victor M.; Njinga, Raymond L.; Mathuthu, Manny; Dlamini, Thulani C.

2015-01-01

Medicinal plant consumption can be a source of human exposure to radioactive elements such as 238U and 232Th, which can lead to internal radiation doses. The uptake of 238U and 232Th from soils to the leaf samples of three different medicinal plant species (Eucalyptus globulus, Acacia mearnsii and Hyparrhenia filipendula) from the purlieu of the Princess gold mine dump, an abandoned contaminated tailings storage site (TSS), located at longitude 27°55′00″E and latitude 26°09′30″S in Davidsonville (Roodepoort, west of Johannesburg, South Africa) was measured. This was done using ICP-MS spectrometry and substantial differences were observed in the soil-plant transfer factor (TF) values between these radionuclides. The plant species E. globulus exhibited the highest uptake of 238U, with an average TF of 3.97, while that of H. filipendula was 0.01 and the lowest TF of 0.15 × 10−2 was measured for A. mearnsii. However, in the case of 232Th, the highest average TF was observed for A. mearnsii (0.29), followed by E. globulus (0.10) and lowest was measured for H. filipendula (0.27 × 10−2). The ratio of TF average value i.e., 238U to 232Th in the soil-plant leaves was 38.05 for E. globulus, 0.01 for A. mearnsii and 4.38 for H. filipendula. PMID:26690462

Influence of soil texture on the distribution and availability of 238U, 230Th, and 226Ra in soils

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Blanco Rodriguez, P.; Vera Tome, F.; Lozano, J.C.; Perez-Fernandez, M.A.

2008-01-01

The influence of soil texture on the distribution and availability of 238 U, 230 Th, and 226 Ra in soils was studied in soil samples collected at a rehabilitated uranium mine located in the Extremadura region in south-west Spain. The activity concentration (Bq kg -1 ) in the soils ranged from 60 to 750 for 238 U, from 60 to 260 for 230 Th, and from 70 to 330 for 226 Ra. The radionuclide distribution was determined in three soil fractions: coarse sand (0.5-2 mm), medium-fine sand (0.067-0.5 mm), and silt and clay ( 238 U, 230 Th, and 226 Ra between the activity concentration per fraction and the total activity concentration in the bulk soil. Thus, from the determination of the activity concentration in the bulk soil, one could estimate the activity concentration in each fraction. Correlations were also found for 238 U and 226 Ra between the labile activity concentration in each fraction and the total activity concentration in bulk soil. Assuming that there is some particle-size fraction that predominates in the process of soil-to-plant transfer, the parameters obtained in this study should be used as correction factors for the transfer factors determined from the bulk soil in previous studies

Determination of uranium concentrations and "2"3"4U/"2"3"8U activity ratio in some granitic rock samples by alpha spectrometry: application of a radiochemical procedure

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Khattab, Mahmoud R.

2016-01-01

The present study is an application of a radiochemical procedure using alpha spectrometry technique for determination of uranium isotopes "2"3"8U, "2"3"4U and "2"3"5U on 13 granitic samples. These samples were collected from Gabal Gattar area, Northeastern Desert, Egypt. The collected samples were digested using microwave technique with aqua regia and spiked with "2"3"2U for chemical yield and activity calculation. Separation of uranium isotopes from the samples was done by Dowex 1 x 4 (50-100 mesh) resin followed by source preparation using microprecipitation technique. The concentrations of "2"3"8U were ranged between 28.9±0.9 and 134.8±1.8 Bq/g, and the "2"3"4U concentrations were between 24±0.6 and 147.7±2.2 Bq/g. For the "2"3"5U, the activity concentrations were between 1.3±0.2 and 6.7±1.2 Bq/g. The activity ratio of "2"3"4U/"2"3"8U was calculated and varied from 0.80 to 1.30. (author)

234U and 238U in the Carrizo Sandstone aquifer of South Texas

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cowart, J.B.; Osmond, J.K.

1974-01-01

The waters of the Carrizo Sand formation of South Texas, United States of America, exhibit a pattern of uranium isotopic disequilibrium, described in terms of 234 U/ 238 U activity ratio ('A.R.') and uranium concentration, which may be a function of geochemical factors and the hydrologic history of the area. In terms of uranium, two regimes seem to exist. The first, including outcrop and near outcrop sample locations, has waters with relatively high concentration and low A.R. Somewhat downdip, the uranium concentration decreases sharply at the downdip limit of the oxidation environment, a zone of uranium precipitation. Recoil of daughter products from the precipitated uranium causes an increase of A.R. of the water. Water of low uranium concentration and high A.R. is found throughout the downdip regime. If a constant input of 234 U through time is assumed, the downdip decrease in A.R. after the initial introduction of 234 U into the water may be ascribed to radioactive decay of 234 U. However, this assumption leads to the calculation of a water flow rate one twentieth that determined by other means. Alternatively, this pattern may be an artifact of a change of climate from 20,000 years to 10,000 years ago. In this case, the decrease in A.R. downdip is a function of a varying input of 234 U as well as decay. (author)

Metabolic characteristics of an industrial 238PuO2 dust and its effects in rodent lungs

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Smith, H.; Stather, J.W.; James, A.C.; Stradling, G.N.

1980-01-01

The physical and biological properties of a 238 PuO 2 dust were examined in rodents following an accidental human contamination with a 238 PuO 2 dust. The rodents were exposed to a respirable fraction of the dust, either by direct intubation into the pulmonary region of the lung or by inhalation of an aerosolized suspension at two levels [i.e., 1.1 kBq and 7.3 kBq initial lung deposit (ILD)]. Groups of animals were studied for up to 600 days after exposure. In this period about 8% of the ILD was translocated to bone and liver. Approximately half the ILD was cleared with a half-time of about 20 days. Long-term retention of the remainder depended upon the ILD. At the low level the half-time of long-term retention was about 240 days; at the highest level it corresponded to over 1000 days. The difference in retention characteristics was related to the degree of fibrosis in lung tissue, which increased in severity according to the radiation dose

Measurement of the 238U(n ,γ ) cross section up to 80 keV with the Total Absorption Calorimeter at the CERN n_TOF facility

Science.gov (United States)

Wright, T.; Guerrero, C.; Billowes, J.; Cano-Ott, D.; Mendoza, E.; Altstadt, S.; Andrzejewski, J.; Audouin, L.; Bécares, V.; Barbagallo, M.; Bečvář, F.; Belloni, F.; Berthoumieux, E.; Bosnar, D.; Brugger, M.; Calviño, F.; Calviani, M.; Carrapiço, C.; Cerutti, F.; Chiaveri, E.; Chin, M.; Colonna, N.; Cortés, G.; Cortés-Giraldo, M. A.; Diakaki, M.; Dietz, M.; Domingo-Pardo, C.; Durán, I.; Dzysiuk, N.; Eleftheriadis, C.; Ferrari, A.; Fraval, K.; Furman, V.; Gómez-Hornillos, M. B.; Ganesan, S.; García, A. R.; Giubrone, G.; Gonçalves, I. F.; González-Romero, E.; Goverdovski, A.; Griesmayer, E.; Gunsing, F.; Gurusamy, P.; Heftrich, T.; Hernández-Prieto, A.; Jenkins, D. G.; Jericha, E.; Käppeler, F.; Kadi, Y.; Karadimos, D.; Katabuchi, T.; Ketlerov, V.; Khryachkov, V.; Koehler, P.; Kokkoris, M.; Kroll, J.; Krtička, M.; Lampoudis, C.; Langer, C.; Leal-Cidoncha, E.; Lederer, C.; Leeb, H.; Leong, L. S.; Lerendegui-Marco, J.; Losito, R.; Manousos, A.; Marganiec, J.; Martínez, T.; Massimi, C.; Mastinu, P.; Mengoni, A.; Milazzo, P. M.; Mingrone, F.; Mirea, M.; Paradela, C.; Pavlik, A.; Perkowski, J.; Praena, J.; Quesada, J. M.; Rauscher, T.; Reifarth, R.; Riego-Perez, A.; Robles, M.; Roman, F.; Rubbia, C.; Ryan, J. A.; Sabaté-Gilarte, M.; Sarmento, R.; Saxena, A.; Schillebeeckx, P.; Schmidt, S.; Schumann, D.; Sedyshev, P.; Tagliente, G.; Tain, J. L.; Tarifeño-Saldivia, A.; Tarrío, D.; Tassan-Got, L.; Tsinganis, A.; Valenta, S.; Vannini, G.; Variale, V.; Vaz, P.; Ventura, A.; Vermeulen, M. J.; Versaci, R.; Vlachoudis, V.; Vlastou, R.; Wallner, A.; Ware, T.; Weigand, M.; Weiss, C.; Žugec, P.; n TOF Collaboration

2017-12-01

The radiative capture cross section of a highly pure (99.999%), 6.125(2) grams and 9.56(5)×10-4 atoms/barn areal density 238U sample has been measured with the Total Absorption Calorimeter (TAC) in the 185 m flight path at the CERN neutron time-of-flight facility n_TOF. This measurement is in response to the NEA High Priority Request list, which demands an accuracy in this cross section of less than 3% below 25 keV. These data have undergone careful background subtraction, with special care being given to the background originating from neutrons scattered by the 238U sample. Pileup and dead-time effects have been corrected for. The measured cross section covers an energy range between 0.2 eV and 80 keV, with an accuracy that varies with neutron energy, being better than 4% below 25 keV and reaching at most 6% at higher energies.

Effect of nonaxial and hexadecapole deformation on the hyperfine splitting of energy levels in 238U muonic atoms

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bagaev, V.I.; Mikhajlov, I.N.; Ortlepp, Kh.G.; Fromm, V.D.

1979-01-01

The effect of nonaxial and hexadecapole deformation on spectra of moun atoms is considered, the model of rigid nonaxial rotator being used. Experimental data on μ -238 U obtained on the JINR synchrocyclotron are presented. The effect of monopolar, quadrupolar and hexadecapolar parts of potential on muon spectrum is studied using a separated beam of negative 105 MeV/c muons, as the contribution of other harmonics is negligible. Wave functions of 238 U nucleus are determined in the framework of the Davydov-Filipov model. The values of charge distribution parameters obtained for 238 U are compared with available ones. The comparison shows that the effect of nuclear polarization on quadrupolar splitting of n→n-1 transitions decreases with the growth of n. Quadrupolar splitting of 4F→3D transitions is sufficiently large for experimental studies. Besides, vacuum polarization, radial charge distribution etc. produce an insignificant effect on the above transitions

CREATING THE KULTUK POLYGON FOR EARTHQUAKE PREDICTION: VARIATIONS OF (234U/238U AND 87SR/86SR IN GROUNDWATER FROM ACTIVE FAULTS AT THE WESTERN SHORE OF LAKE BAIKAL

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

S. V. Rasskazov

2015-01-01

.5 mkg/l concentrations of uranium (components from the Medlyanka river and Kultuchnaya river, respectively. The U abundances reflect relatively reduced conditions in group 1 and more oxidized in group 2. The higher (234U/238U in the surface water with intermediate concentrations of uranium (0.009–0.500 mkg/l may indicate the admixture of a groundwater component (Fig. 3. Figure 4 shows relations between surface water and groundwater components in the Kultuk polygon in terms of U content. In Figure 5, the field of data points of U and Sr isotope ratios in groundwater from the Kultuk polygon is contoured by curved lines that meet with each other at compositions corresponding to the end members E (87Sr/86Sr=0.7205, 234U/238U=1.0 and NE (87Sr/86Sr=0.70534, 234U/238U=3.3. Uranium ratios of the former and the latter components show equilibrium and the most nonequilibrium compositions, respectively. The field is characteristic of water samples from the rocks of the southern suture zone of the Siberian craton. Shift of the data points of water from stations 26 and 1310 to the right of this data field (i.e. with relative increasing 87Sr/86Sr is due to lateral transition from the rocks of the suture zone to the Archean rocks of the Sharyzhalgai block (Fig. 6. The isotope systematics of uranium and strontium in the strongly nonequilibrium uranium segment is supplemented by the systematics of uranium in (234U/238U vs. 1/U diagram (Fig. 7. The U composition in water from station 40 reflects a combination of processes that take place at station 27 (i.e. in the central part of the deformation system and at station 38 (i.e. at its periphery. Approximately equal contents of uranium at the three above‐mentioned stations may reflect similar oxidization levels of the medium. In the Southern Baikal basin, the Irkutsk Seismic Station recorded an earthquake of class 11.2 on 08 January 2013 [Map…, 2013]. The earthquake epicentre was located near Listvyanka settlement (51.85° N, 105°16

Application of 234U/238U isotope ratio data for the study of geochemical problems associated with local water sources from Aguas da Prata (SP, Brazil)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bonotto, D.M.

1982-01-01

The uranium-238, uranium-234 and radon content of spring waters of Aguas da Prata (SP) - Platina, Paiol, Villela, Sao Bento, Prata-Radioativa, Prata-Nova, Boi, Vitoria and Prata-Antiga - was found; the activity ratio AR ( 234 U/ 238 U) was applied to the geochemistry of local water sources. The uranium analysis procedure consisted of the following steps: adition of 232 U- 228 Th spike to the samples, coprecipitation with iron, iron extraction with organic solvent, separation on anion-exchange resin, extraction with TTA, deposition on stainless steel disc and determination of uranium content by alpha spectrometry. The uranium-238 content changed from 0,10 to 11,56 ppb (average value = 2,3 ppb). The higher values were observed for the waters circulating through sandstones and the lower through volcanic rocks. The inverse correlation (r sub(s) =-0,76) between pH and uranium-238 content confirmed the contribution of this factor on its solubility. The significative correlation r sub(s) = 0,76 between dissolved oxygen and uranium-238 content also confirmed the higher uranium on the more oxidizing zones. The AR changed from 2,84 to 11,68 (average value = 6). These values defined the regional aquifer systems as mineralized in uranium. The higher AR were observed for the deep groundwaters and the lower for the shallow one. Because the 238 U→ 234 Th decay, the 234 Th ejection to the solution was confirmed as the most important factor responsible for the extreme observed isotopic fractionation. (Author) [pt

Measurement of Fragment Mass Distributions in Neutron-induced Fission of {sup 238}U and {sup 232}Th at Intermediate Energies

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Simutkin, V.D. [Uppsala University, P.O Box 525, SE-751 20 Uppsala (Sweden)

2008-07-01

Conceptual analysis of accelerator-driven systems assumes extensive use of nuclear data on neutron-induced reactions at intermediate energies. In particular, information about the fission fragment yields from the {sup 238}U(n,f) and {sup 232}Th(n,f) reactions is of particular interest at neutron energies from 10 to 200 MeV. However, there is a lack of such data for both {sup 238}U and {sup 232}Th. Up to now, the intermediate energy measurements have been performed for {sup 238}U only, and there are no data for the {sup 232}Th(n,f) reaction. The aim of the work is to provide such data. Fission fragment mass distributions for the {sup 232}Th(n,f) and {sup 238}U(n,f) reactions have been measured for the incident neutron energies 32.8 MeV, 45.3 MeV and 59.9 MeV. The experiments have been performed at the neutron beam facility of the Universite Catholique de Louvain, Belgium. A multi-section Frisch-gridded ionization chamber has been used as a fission fragment detector. The data obtained have been interpreted in terms of the multimodal random neck-rupture model (MMRNRM). (authors)

230Th/238U and 226Ra/230Th fractionation in young basaltic glasses from the East Pacific Rise

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Reinitz, I.; Turekian, K.K.

1989-01-01

Mid-ocean ridge basalt (MORB) glasses treated to remove manganese and iron oxyhydroxide coatings containing U and Th decay chain nuclides sequestered from the ambient aqueous environment show little fractionation of ( 230 Th) from ( 238 U), but extensive enrichment of ( 226 Ra) over ( 230 Th). Chronometry based on ( 230 Th)-( 238 U) disequilibrium yields a mean age of 151,000 ± 55,000 (2σ) years ago for Th-U fractionation, from a source region with Th/U (atom ratio) = 1.58 ± 0.43 (2σ). ( 226 Ra) excesses over ( 230 Th) indicate an enrichment event more recent than the fractionation of Th from U. ( 226 Ra/ 230 Th) correlates well with K/U, providing a rough means of estimating the age since eruption of MORB glasses. (orig.)

Origin and geochemical behavior of uranium in marine sediments. Utilization of the 234U/238U ratio in marine geochemistry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Organo, Catherine

1997-01-01

The first part of this thesis presents the current situation of knowledge of uranium in marine environment. The second part describes the methods of analysis as well as the material support of the study, i.e., the sediments and marine deposits investigated. The third part is dedicated to the study of uranium mobility in marine sediments characterized by detrital terrigenous composition (pelagic clays). This approach allowed quantifying the entering and leaving flux of uranium after the sediment settling and, to discuss, on this basis, the consequences on the uranium oceanic balance. In the third part the origin and behavior of uranium in zones of high surface productivity is studied. The uranium enrichments observed in the hemi-pelagic sediments of the EUMELI (J.G.O.F.S.-France) programme will constitute a material of study adequate for measuring the variations in the 234 U/2 38U ratio in solid phase, in response to the oxido-reducing characteristics of the sediment. Thus establishing the origin of the trapped uranium has been possible. Also, the nature of the sedimentary phases related to uranium in bio-genetic sediments in the Austral Ocean was determined. Thus a relationship between the variations in the 234 U/ 238 and the diagenetic transformations was possible to establish. Finally in the fifth part a study of the behavior of uranium in a polymetallic shell characteristic for deposits of hydrogenized origin

Reaction and fission cross-sections of 750AMeV 238U ions on Pb, Cu and AI-targets

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hesse, M.; Aumann, T.; Czajkowski, S.; Dessagne, P.; Hanelt, E.; Kozhuharov, C.; Miehe, C.; Pfuetzner, M.; Roehl, C.; Schwab, W.; Stephan, C.; Tassan-Got, L.

1995-09-01

Charge-loss and fission cross-sections of 238 U at 750 A.MeV were measured on Al, Cu and Pb targets. The charge-loss rate was obtained by the attenuation method. Fission was selected by detecting the pair of highly ionizing fragments. Since the neutron-loss cross sections were measured in a parallel experiment for the same projectiles, all cross sections contributing to 238 U collisions on nuclei are available now as function of the target mass number and can be compared with current models. (orig.)

Adsorption of Cs-137 and U-238 in semi-arid soils

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hernandez T, U. O.; Monroy G, F.; Anguiano A, J.; Fernandez R, E.

2013-10-01

Is of great importance to determine the adsorption properties of the soils where radioactive wastes are stored, fundamentally of the radioisotopes contained in these wastes, with the purpose of knowing like will be their behavior in the event of happening radionuclide migration toward the surrounding means. Therefore, in this work the adsorption properties of 137 Cs + and 238 UO 2 2+ in soils coming from the Storage Center of Radioactive Wastes are studied. Was studied the effect of the soil type and the particle size of the soil in the adsorption properties of Cs (I) and U (Vi). 13 soil samples and six different particle sizes were analyzed. The adsorption studies were carried out by the radiotracers technique in static way. The results indicate an important adsorption affinity toward the Cs-137 and a very vulnerable affinity for the 238 UO 2 2+ . (author)

Measurement of neutron inelastic scattering cross section of {sup 238}U

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Miura, Takako; Baba, Mamoru; Ibaraki, Masanobu; Sanami, Toshiya; Win, Than; Hirasawa, Yoshitaka; Matsuyama, Shigeo; Hirakawa, Naohiro [Tohoku Univ., Sendai (Japan)

1998-03-01

Neutron scattering from the 0{sup +}, 2{sup +} (1-st) and 4{sup +} (2nd) levels of {sup 238}U was measured for incident energies between 0.4 and 0.85 MeV at the Tohoku University 4.5 MV Dynamitron facility, using the time-of-flight (TOF) method with monoenergetic pulsed neutrons by the {sup 7}Li(p,n) reaction. The results are presented in comparison with other experimental data and evaluated data. (author)

Probing the role of Skyrme interactions on the fission dynamics of the {sup 6}Li + {sup 238}U reaction

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sharma, Ishita; Kumar, Raj; Sharma, Manoj K. [Thapar University, School of Physics and Materials Science, Patiala (India)

2017-06-15

The performance of selected five Skyrme forces (out of a set of 240), tested by Dutra et al., is analyzed in view of fusion-fission dynamics. These forces are assumed to perform better for neutron-rich systems, so the choice of the reaction is accordingly made by opting for a neutron-rich target in {sup 6}Li + {sup 238}U reaction. This reaction is diagnosed further in reference to fusion hindrance within the dynamical approach of the cluster-decay model (DCM). In order to reduce the computational time, three Skyrme forces are figured out with the criteria that these forces cover the barrier characteristics of the remaining two forces as well. The fission cross-sections are successfully addressed at low energies for the {sup 6}Li + {sup 238}U reaction. However, at relatively higher energies, the excitation functions show theoretical suppression with respect to experimental data, which may be associated with the possible existence of incomplete fusion (ICF). For ICF, we have considered that the {sup 6}Li broke into {sup 4}He + {sup 2}H, as mentioned in the experimental work. The calculations of ICF are carried out for the {sup 4}He + {sup 238}U reaction with the selected Skyrme forces at E{sub c.m.} = 26.20 and 27.51 MeV. These forces address the data nicely for the compound nucleus (CN) as well as ICF processes. Here, the NRAPR force seems to require lesser barrier modification as compared to the other forces, therefore it can be used as an alternate choice for calculating the interaction potential. Additionally, the prediction of cross-sections at lower energies has been done with DCM using the NRAPR force. The l-dependent % barrier modification of the Skyrme forces undertaken is also worked out in reference to fusion hindrance at below barrier energies. (orig.)

An alternative route for the preparation of the medical isotope 99Mo from the 238U(γ, f) and 100Mo(γ, n) reactions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Naik, H.; Goswami, A.; Suryanarayana, S.V.; Jagadeesan, K.C.; Thakare, S.V.; Joshi, P.V.; Nimje, V.T.; Mittal, K.C.; Venugopal, V.; Kailas, S.

2013-01-01

The radionuclide 99 Mo, which has a half-life of 65.94 h was produced from 238 U(γ, f) and 100 Mo(γ, n) reactions using a 10 MeV electron linac at EBC, Kharghar Navi-Mumbai, India. This has been investigated since the daughter product 99m Tc is very important from a medical point of view and can be produced in a generator from the parent 99 Mo. The activity of 99 Mo was analyzed by a γ-ray spectrometric technique using a HPGe detector. From the detected γ-rays activity of 140.5 and 739.8 keV, the amount of 99 Mo produced was determined. For comparison, the amount of 99 Mo from 238 U(γ, f) and 100 Mo(γ, n) reactions was also estimated using the experimental photon flux from 197 Au(γ, n) 196 Au reaction. The amount of 99 Mo from the detected γ-lines is in agreement with the estimated value for 238 U(γ, f) and 100 Mo(γ, n) reactions. The production of 99 Mo activity from 238 U(γ, f) and 100 Mo(γ, n) reactions is a relevant and novel approach, which provides alternative routes to 235,238 U(n, f) and 98 Mo(n, γ) reactions, circumventing the need for a reactor. The viability and practicality of the 99 Mo production from the 238 U(γ, f) and 100 Mo(γ, n) reactions alternative to 235,238 U(n, f) and 98 Mo(n, γ) reactions has been emphasize. An estimate has been also arrived based on the experimental data of present work to fulfill the requirement of DOE. (author)

Revisiting the U-238 thermal capture cross section and gamma-raymission probabilities from Np-239 decay

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Trkov, A.; Molnar, G.L.; Revay, Zs.; Mughabghab, S.F.; Firestone,R.B.; Pronyaev, V.G.; Nichols, A.L.; Moxon, M.C.

2005-03-03

The precise value of the thermal capture cross section of238U is uncertain, and evaluated cross sections from various sourcesdiffer by more than their assigned uncertainties. A number of theoriginal publications have been reviewed to assess the discrepant data,corrections were made for more recent standard cross sections andotherconstants, and one new measurement was analyzed. Due to the strongcorrelations in activation measurements, the gamma-ray emissionprobabilities from the beta decay of 239Np were also analyzed. As aresult of the analysis, a value of 2.683 +- 0.012 barns was derived forthe thermal capture cross section of 238U. A new evaluation of thegamma-ray emission probabilities from 239Np decay was alsoundertaken.

Use of LabSOCS for determination of specific concentrations of {sup 40}K, {sup 238}U and {sup 232}Th in fertilizer samples; Uso de LabSOCS no calculo da eficiencia de detecao para determinacao da concentracao especifica de {sup 40}K, {sup 238}U e {sup 232}Th em amostras de fertilizantes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Garcez, Ricardo Washington Dutra; Lopes, Jose Marques; Silva, Ademir Xavier da, E-mail: rgarcez@con.ufrj.br, E-mail: marqueslopez@yahoo.com.br [Coordenacao dos Programas de Pos-Graduacao em Engenharia (COPPE/UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil). Programa de Engenharia Nuclear; Domingues, Alessandro Mariano; Lima, Marco Frota, E-mail: slessandrodomingues@fisica.if.uff.br, E-mail: marcofrotalima@yahoo.com.br [Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF), Niteroi, RJ (Brazil). Instituto de Biologia

2015-07-01

Use of fertilizer is an established practice worldwide to promote agricultural productivity increased without increasing the planted area, resulting in native forests protection and increase of the food availability. Some kinds of fertilizer have in their chemical composition some radionuclides due the origin of its feedstock, such as {sup 238}U, the {sup 232}Th, and their descendants, beyond {sup 40}K. Knowledge of the radioactivity levels in the environment is great importance to know the gamma radiation dose that the human being is exposed. For identification and quantitation of radionuclides, it was used gamma spectrometry where HPGe detector was used to obtain the spectra, and LabSOCS software for calculating the detection efficiency for each energy. The values of {sup 232}Th specific concentrations ranged from 4.1 to 368.1 Bq.Kg{sup -1} , the values of {sup 238}U specific concentrations ranged from 16.0 to 647.7 Bq.Kg{sup -1} and {sup 40}K specific concentrations ranged from 19.1 to 12713 Bq.Kg{sup -1} . Concentrations of values are consistent with those found in literature. (author)

Transfer of 238U, 230Th, 226Ra, and 210Pb from soils to tree and shrub species in a Mediterranean area

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Blanco Rodriguez, P.; Vera Tome, F.; Lozano, J.C.; Perez Fernandez, M.A.

2010-01-01

The soil-to-plant transfer factors of natural uranium isotopes ( 238 U and 234 U), 230 Th, 226 Ra, and 210 Pb were studied in a disused uranium mine located in the Extremadura region in the south-west of Spain. The plant samples included trees (Quercus ilex, Quercus suber, and Eucalyptus cameldulensis) and one shrub (Cytisus multiflorus). All of them are characteristic of Mediterranean environments. The activity concentrations in leaves and fruit were determined for the tree species at different stages of growth. For the shrub, the total above-ground fraction was considered in three seasons. For old leaves and fruit, the highest activity concentrations were found in Eucalyptus cameldulensis for all the radionuclides studied, except in the case of 230 Th that presented similar activity concentrations in all of the tree species studied. In every case, the transfer to fruit was less than the transfer to leaves. In the shrub, the results depended on the season of sampling, with the highest value obtained in spring and the lowest in autumn. Important correlations were obtained for 238 U and 226 Ra between the activity ratio in soils with that in leaves or fruit.

Neutron data evaluation of {sup 238}U

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Maslov, V.M.; Porodzinskij, Y.V.; Hasegawa, Akira; Shibata, Keiichi [Japan Atomic Energy Research Inst., Tokai, Ibaraki (Japan). Tokai Research Establishment

1998-08-01

Cross sections for neutron-induced reactions on {sup 238}U are calculated by using the Hauser-Feshbach-Moldauer theory, the coupled channel model and the double-humped fission barrier model. The direct excitation of ground state band levels is calculated with a rigid-rotator model. The direct excitation of vibrational octupole and K = 2{sup +} quadrupole bands is included using a soft (deformable) rotator model. The competition of inelastic scattering to fission reaction is shown to be sensitive to the target nucleus level density at excitations above the pairing gap. As for fission, (n,2n), (n,3n), and (n,4n) reactions, secondary neutron spectra data are consistently reproduced. Pre-equilibrium emission of first neutron is included. Shell effects in the level densities are shown to be important for estimation of energy dependence of non-emissive fission cross section. (author). 105 refs.

A review of the behaviour of U-238 series radionuclides in soils and plants

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mitchell, N; Pérez-Sánchez, D; Thorne, M C

2013-01-01

The U-238 series of radionuclides is of relevance in a variety of environmental contexts ranging from the remediation of former uranium mining and milling facilities to the deep geological disposal of solid radioactive wastes. Herein, we review what is known concerning the behaviour of radionuclides from the U-238 decay chain in soils and plants. This review is intended to provide a single comprehensive source of information to anyone involved in undertaking environmental impact assessment studies relating to this decay chain. Conclusions are drawn relating to values and ranges of distribution coefficients appropriate to uranium, thorium, radium, lead and polonium in different soil types and under various environmental conditions. Similarly, conclusions are drawn relating to plant:soil concentration ratios for these elements for different plant and soil types, and consideration is given to the distribution of these elements within plants following both root uptake and foliar application. (review)

Electric quadrupole giant resonance in the photofission of sup(238)U IFUSP-P--140

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bhandari, B.S.; Arruda Neto, J.D.T.; Herdade, S.B.; Nascimento, I.C.

1978-02-01

The 238 U nucleus was studied measuring the electrofission yield and angular distributions of fission fragments, in the energy range of 5.5 to 28.3 MeV, using a new method of analysis. An E2 isoscalar giant resonance was found in the photofission cross section of 238 U. This resonance exhausts (71 + -7)% of the EWSR and is located at 9.9 + -0.2 MeV with a width of 6.8 + -0.4 MeV. The position of this resonance is in reasonable agreement with the Bohr and Mottelson prediction (58.Asup( - 1/3MeV). The width of 6.8 + -0.4 MeV is compatible with a possible triple splitting of the resonance. From the angular distributions of photofission fragments and yield measurements of multipoles other than E1, evidence of an M1 mixture in the energy region 6-7 MeV was found

(238)U and total radioactivity in drinking waters in Van province, Turkey.

Science.gov (United States)

Selçuk Zorer, Özlem; Dağ, Beşir

2014-06-01

As part of the national survey to evaluate natural radioactivity in the environment, concentration levels of total radioactivity and natural uranium have been analysed in drinking water samples. A survey to study natural radioactivity in drinking waters was carried out in the Van province, East Turkey. Twenty-three samples of drinking water were collected in the Van province and analysed for total α, total β and (238)U activity. The total α and total β activities were counted by using the α/β counter of the multi-detector low background system (PIC MPC-9604), and the (238)U concentrations were determined by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (Thermo Scientific Element 2). The samples were categorised according to origin: tap, spring or mineral supply. The activity concentrations for total α were found to range from 0.002 to 0.030 Bq L(-1) and for total β from 0.023 to 1.351 Bq L(-1). Uranium concentrations ranging from 0.562 to 14.710 μg L(-1) were observed in drinking waters. Following the World Health Organisation rules, all investigated waters can be used as drinking water.

Validation of the U-238 inelastic scattering neutron cross section through the EXCALIBUR dedicated experiment

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Leconte Pierre

2017-01-01

Full Text Available EXCALIBUR is an integral transmission experiment based on the fast neutron source produced by the bare highly enriched fast burst reactor CALIBAN, located in CEA/DAM Valduc (France. Two experimental campaigns have been performed, one using a sphere of diameter 17 cm and one using two cylinders of 17 cm diameter 9 cm height, both made of metallic Uranium 238. A set of 15 different dosimeters with specific threshold energies have been employed to provide information on the neutron flux attenuation as a function of incident energy. Measurements uncertainties are typically in the range of 0.5–3% (1σ. The analysis of these experiments is performed with the TRIPOLI4 continuous energy Monte Carlo code. A calculation benchmark with validated simplifications is defined in order to improve the statistical convergence under 2%. Various 238U evaluations have been tested: JEFF-3.1.1, ENDF/B-VII.1 and the IB36 evaluation from IAEA. A sensitivity analysis is presented to identify the contribution of each reaction cross section to the integral transmission rate. This feedback may be of interest for the international effort on 238U, through the CIELO project.

Validation of the U-238 inelastic scattering neutron cross section through the EXCALIBUR dedicated experiment

Science.gov (United States)

Leconte, Pierre; Bernard, David

2017-09-01

EXCALIBUR is an integral transmission experiment based on the fast neutron source produced by the bare highly enriched fast burst reactor CALIBAN, located in CEA/DAM Valduc (France). Two experimental campaigns have been performed, one using a sphere of diameter 17 cm and one using two cylinders of 17 cm diameter 9 cm height, both made of metallic Uranium 238. A set of 15 different dosimeters with specific threshold energies have been employed to provide information on the neutron flux attenuation as a function of incident energy. Measurements uncertainties are typically in the range of 0.5-3% (1σ). The analysis of these experiments is performed with the TRIPOLI4 continuous energy Monte Carlo code. A calculation benchmark with validated simplifications is defined in order to improve the statistical convergence under 2%. Various 238U evaluations have been tested: JEFF-3.1.1, ENDF/B-VII.1 and the IB36 evaluation from IAEA. A sensitivity analysis is presented to identify the contribution of each reaction cross section to the integral transmission rate. This feedback may be of interest for the international effort on 238U, through the CIELO project.

Neutron Energy Spectra from Neutron Induced Fission of 235U at 0.95 MeV and of 238U at 1.35 and 2.02 MeV

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Almen, E; Holmqvist, B; Wiedling, T

1971-09-15

The shapes of fission neutron spectra are of interest for power reactor calculations. Recently it has been suggested that the neutron induced fission spectrum of 235U may be harder than was earlier assumed. For this reason measurements of the neutron spectra of some fissile isotopes are in progress at our laboratory. This report will present results from studies of the energy spectra of the neutrons emitted in the neutron induced fission of 235U and 238U. The measurements were performed at an incident neutron energy of 0.95 MeV for 235U and at energies of 1.35 and 2.02 MeV for 238U using time-of-flight techniques. The time-of-flight spectra were only analysed at energies higher than those of the incident neutrons and up to about 10 MeV. Corrections for neutron attenuation in the uranium samples were calculated using a Monte Carlo program. The corrected fission neutron spectra were fitted to Maxwellian temperature distributions. For 235U a temperature of 1.27 +- 0.01 MeV gives the best fit to the experimental data and for 238U the corresponding values are 1.29 +- 0.03 MeV at 1.35 MeV and 1.29 +- 0.02 MeV at 2.02 MeV

Sequential fission process observed in the reaction (16.7 MeV/u) {sup 238}U + {sup nat.}Au using mica as dielectric track detector

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Shahzad, Muhammad Ikram; Qureshi, Imtinan Elahi; Manzoor, Shahid; Khan, Hameed Ahmed

1999-01-04

The evidence of sequential fission has been found in the heavy-ion reaction (16.7 MeV/u) {sup 238}U + {sup nat.}Au, using muscovite mica as Dielectric Track Detector (DTD) placed in a 2{pi}-geometry configuration. The reaction products originating from the interactions of {sup 238}U ions with the atoms of gold were registered in the detector in the form of tracks and identified for performing a detailed kinematical analysis. For this purpose the spherical polar coordinates of the correlated tracks of the multipronged events have been analyzed on an event-by-event basis. Automatic, semi-automatic and manual measuring methods have been employed to collect and manipulate the track data. The known characteristics of binary and ternary events observed in the reaction have been used for the calibration of the detectors. The computed masses, Q-values and relative velocities of the reaction products determined in this analysis are compared with theoretical predictions based on sequential fission process. Agreement within one standard deviation with respect to the experimental values has been found for the majority of analyzed events. Therefore, it is concluded that three particles in the exit channel of the reaction are produced in two successive steps. In the first step of the reaction, two intermediate nuclei are formed as a result of an inelastic collision between projectile and target atoms while in the second step the fission of one of the intermediate nuclei of the previous step takes place. Furthermore no proximity effects have been observed.

Neutron induced fission cross sections for 232Th, 235,238U, 237Np, and 239Pu

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lisowski, P.W.; Ullmann, J.L.; Balestrini, S.J.; Hill, N.W.; Carlson, A.D.; Wasson, O.A.

1989-01-01

Neutron-induced fission cross section ratios for samples of 232 Th, 235,238 U, 237 Np and 239 Pu have been measured from 1 to 400 MeV. The fission reaction rate was determined for all samples simultaneously using a fast parallel plate ionization chamber at a 20-m flight path. A well characterized annular proton recoil telescope was used to measure the neutron fluence from 3 to 30 MeV. Those data provided the shape of the 235 U(n,f) cross section relative to the hydrogen scattering cross section. That shape was then normalized to the very accurately known value for 235 U(n,f) at 14.178 MeV. From 30 to 400 MeV cross section values were determined using the neutron fluence measured with a plastic scintillator. Cross section values of 232 Th, 235,238 U, 237 Np and 239 Pu were computed from the ratio data using the authors' values for 235 U(n,f). In addition to providing new results at high neutron energies, these data highlight several areas of deficiency in the evaluated nuclear data files and provide new information for the 235 U(n,f) standard

Delayed neutron kinetic functions for /sup 232/Th and /sup 238/U mixtures

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ganich, P P; Goshovskij, M V; Lendel, A I; Lomonosov, V I; Sikora, D I; Sychev, S I

1984-11-01

In order to investigate the applicability of the method based on using kinetic functions, describing the emission of delayed neutrons by samples for determination of the content of fissionable nuclides in binary mixtures, the /sup 232/Th+/sup 238/U mixtures have been analyzed with the M-30 microtron. Fresh samples containing ThO/sub 2/, U/sub 3/O/sub 8/ and their mixtures are irradiated by bremstrahlung at the 15.5 MeV energy of accelerated electrons and 9 ..mu..A average current. The mass of samples is about 6 g. To determine the kinetic functions, temporal distributions of delayed neutron pulses are used, their maximum number for different samples being (1.7-3.0) x 10/sup 4/. In processing the data obtained two methods of normalization of the delayed neutron number in the kinetic functions are used: to the total yield of delayed neutrons and to the yield of /sup 133/I ..gamma..-quanta. The conclusion is drawn that the method investigated permits to determine relative /sup 238/U concentrations in the mixtures considered with 0.06-0.2 errors. Error reduction is achieved during the normalization of the number of delayed neutrons to the yield of /sup 130/I ..gamma..-quanta.

Angular distribution of fragments from neutron-induced fission of {sup 238}U in the intermediate energy region

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Carlsson, Magnus

2004-06-01

Areas ranging from nuclear structure models to accelerator-driven systems benefit from improved neutron-induced fission data in the intermediate energy region. In this Master's degree thesis, the fragment angular distribution from fission of {sup 238}U, induced by 21-MeV neutrons, has been analysed from an experiment performed with the Medley/DIFFICILE setup at the The Svedberg Laboratory in Uppsala. The data have been corrected for low energy neutrons in the beam. The results agree with other experiments, as well as with model calculations. The data should be a starting point for further analysis with a goal to deduce the fission cross-section of {sup 238}U.

Comparison of measured and calculated 238U capture self-indication ratios from 4 to 10 keV

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Perez, R.B.; de Saussure, G.; Yang, J.T.; Munoz-Cobos, J.L.; Todd, J.H.

1983-01-01

From 4 keV to 149 keV the 238 U cross sections are represented in ENDF/B-V by unresolved-resonance parameters (URP). The purpose of this representation is to enable the calculation of resonance self-protection as a function of temperature and dilution. Since the URPs are not defined unambiguously by the cross-section data, it is important that the unresolved representation be tested with appropriate experiments, such as capture self-indication ratio (SIR) measurements. In this paper we compare 238 U capture SIR measurements in the 4- to 10-keV energy range with calculations done with ENDF/B-V and with recently published resolved resonance parameters

238U-230Th dating of chevkinite in high-silica rhyolites from La Primavera and Yellowstone calderas

Science.gov (United States)

Vazquez, Jorge A.; Velasco, Noel O.; Schmitt, Axel K.; Bleick, Heather A.; Stelten, Mark E.

2014-01-01

Application of 238U-230Th disequilibrium dating of accessory minerals with contrasting stabilities and compositions can provide a unique perspective on magmatic evolution by placing the thermochemical evolution of magma within the framework of absolute time. Chevkinite, a Th-rich accessory mineral that occurs in peralkaline and metaluminous rhyolites, may be particularly useful as a chronometer of crystallization and differentiation because its composition may reflect the chemical changes of its host melt. Ion microprobe 128U-230Th dating of single chevkinite microphenocrysts from pre- and post-caldera La Primavera, Mexico, rhyolites yields model crystallization ages that are within 10's of k.y. of their corresponding K-Ar ages of ca. 125 ka to 85 ka, while chevkinite microphenocrysts from a post-caldera Yellowstone, USA, rhyolite yield a range of ages from ca. 110 ka to 250 ka, which is indistinguishable from the age distribution of coexisting zircon. Internal chevkinite-zircon isochrons from La Primavera yield Pleistocene ages with ~5% precision due to the nearly two order difference in Th/U between both minerals. Coupling chevkinite 238U-230Th ages and compositional analyses reveals a secular trend of Th/U and rare earth elements recorded in Yellowstone rhyolite, likely reflecting progressive compositional evolution of host magma. The relatively short timescale between chevkinite-zircon crystallization and eruption suggests that crystal-poor rhyolites at La Primavera were erupted shortly after differentiation and/or reheating. These results indicate that 238U-230Th dating of chevkinite via ion microprobe analysis may be used to date crystallization and chemical evolution of silicic magmas.

A year-by-year record of 236-U/238-U in coral as a step towards establishing 236-U from nuclear weapons testing fall-out as oceanic tracer

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Winkler, Stephan; Steier, Peter [University of Vienna, Faculty of Physics, Vienna (Austria); Carilli, Jessica [Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Lucas Heights (Australia)

2012-07-01

Since uranium is known to behave conservatively in ocean waters, 236-U has great potential in application as oceanic tracer. 236-U (t1/2=23.4 Ma) was introduced into the oceans by atmospheric nuclear weapon testing with amount estimates ranging from 700 kg to 1500 kg. Thus a resulting initial average 236-U/238-U ratio of at least 5e-9 is expected for an oceanic mixed layer depth of 100 m. This ratio is already higher than the natural pre-nuclear background, which is expected to be at 10e-14 levels. Even the elevated ratios of global stratospheric fall-out are beyond the capabilities of ICPMS and TIMS methods. However, the exceptional sensitivity and ultra-low background for 236-U of the Vienna Environmental Research Accelerator's Accelerator Mass Spectrometry system allows us to measure down to 10-13 detection limits. We present a year-by-year record of 236-U/238-U for a Caribbean coral core covering years 1944 to 2006, thus allowing to us put constraints on the oceanic input of 236-U by atmospheric testing. Moreover modeling of the results also demonstrates the capabilities of 236-U as oceanic tracer.

Noise characteristics of U. S. synchrotron radiation sources

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Powers, L.

1986-01-01

Noise characteristics of the U. S. x-ray synchrotron sources are compared in the 0--2.5-kHz region. In general, little difference is found in the characteristic frequencies of the noise on focused and unfocused beamlines of a particular source, but the magnitude and white-noise levels differ. The National Synchrotron Light Source shows the least characteristic noise and the noise that is observed is small in magnitude (2--3 times the white-noise level)

Standard practice for the determination of 237Np, 232Th, 235U and 238U in urine by inductively coupled plasma-Mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and gamma ray spectrometry.

CERN Document Server

American Society for Testing and Materials. Philadelphia

2005-01-01

1.1 This practice covers the separation and preconcentration of neptunium-237 (237Np), thorium-232 (232Th), uranium-235 (235U) and uranium-238 (238U) from urine followed by quantitation using ICP-MS. 1.2 This practice can be used to support routine bioassay programs. The minimum detectable concentrations (MDC) for this method, taking the preconcentration factor into account, are approximately 1E-2Bq for 237Np (0.38ng), 2E-6Bq for 232Th (0.50ng), 4E-5Bq for 235U (0.50ng) and 6E-6Bq for 238U (0.48ng). 1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

Exploratory study of fission product yields of neutron-induced fission of 235U , 238U , and 239Pu at 8.9 MeV

Science.gov (United States)

Bhatia, C.; Fallin, B. F.; Gooden, M. E.; Howell, C. R.; Kelley, J. H.; Tornow, W.; Arnold, C. W.; Bond, E.; Bredeweg, T. A.; Fowler, M. M.; Moody, W.; Rundberg, R. S.; Rusev, G. Y.; Vieira, D. J.; Wilhelmy, J. B.; Becker, J. A.; Macri, R.; Ryan, C.; Sheets, S. A.; Stoyer, M. A.; Tonchev, A. P.

2015-06-01

Using dual-fission chambers each loaded with a thick (200 -400 -mg /c m2) actinide target of 235 ,238U or 239Pu and two thin (˜10 -100 -μ g /c m2) reference foils of the same actinide, the cumulative yields of fission products ranging from 92Sr to 147Nd have been measured at En= 8.9 MeV . The 2H(d ,n ) 3He reaction provided the quasimonoenergetic neutron beam. The experimental setup and methods used to determine the fission product yield (FPY) are described, and results for typically eight high-yield fission products are presented. Our FPYs for 235U(n ,f ) , 238U(n ,f ) , and 239Pu(n ,f ) at 8.9 MeV are compared with the existing data below 8 MeV from Glendenin et al. [Phys. Rev. C 24, 2600 (1981), 10.1103/PhysRevC.24.2600], Nagy et al. [Phys. Rev. C 17, 163 (1978), 10.1103/PhysRevC.17.163], Gindler et al. [Phys. Rev. C 27, 2058 (1983), 10.1103/PhysRevC.27.2058], and those of Mac Innes et al. [Nucl. Data Sheets 112, 3135 (2011), 10.1016/j.nds.2011.11.009] and Laurec et al. [Nucl. Data Sheets 111, 2965 (2010), 10.1016/j.nds.2010.11.004] at 14.5 and 14.7 MeV, respectively. This comparison indicates a negative slope for the energy dependence of most fission product yields obtained from 235U and 239Pu , whereas for 238U the slope issue remains unsettled.

Fission Product Yield Study of 235U, 238U and 239Pu Using Dual-Fission Ionization Chambers

Science.gov (United States)

Bhatia, C.; Fallin, B.; Howell, C.; Tornow, W.; Gooden, M.; Kelley, J.; Arnold, C.; Bond, E.; Bredeweg, T.; Fowler, M.; Moody, W.; Rundberg, R.; Rusev, G.; Vieira, D.; Wilhelmy, J.; Becker, J.; Macri, R.; Ryan, C.; Sheets, S.; Stoyer, M.; Tonchev, A.

2014-05-01

To resolve long-standing differences between LANL and LLNL regarding the correct fission basis for analysis of nuclear test data [M.B. Chadwick et al., Nucl. Data Sheets 111, 2891 (2010); H. Selby et al., Nucl. Data Sheets 111, 2891 (2010)], a collaboration between TUNL/LANL/LLNL has been established to perform high-precision measurements of neutron induced fission product yields. The main goal is to make a definitive statement about the energy dependence of the fission yields to an accuracy better than 2-3% between 1 and 15 MeV, where experimental data are very scarce. At TUNL, we have completed the design, fabrication and testing of three dual-fission chambers dedicated to 235U, 238U, and 239Pu. The dual-fission chambers were used to make measurements of the fission product activity relative to the total fission rate, as well as for high-precision absolute fission yield measurements. The activation method was employed, utilizing the mono-energetic neutron beams available at TUNL. Neutrons of 4.6, 9.0, and 14.5 MeV were produced via the 2H(d,n)3He reaction, and for neutrons at 14.8 MeV, the 3H(d,n)4He reaction was used. After activation, the induced γ-ray activity of the fission products was measured for two months using high-resolution HPGe detectors in a low-background environment. Results for the yield of seven fission fragments of 235U, 238U, and 239Pu and a comparison to available data at other energies are reported. For the first time results are available for neutron energies between 2 and 14 MeV.

Investigations of the geohydrology of the waters of the Negev Desert using U-234/U-238 disequilibrium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kronfeld, J.

1977-11-01

The attempt to use uranium analysis of the ratio 234 U/ 238 U to investigate the flow pattern and the recharge mechanism of the Nubian Sandstone waters in the Negev Desert is reported. 105 water samples were collected from the Nubian Sandstone, the overlying aquifers and from crystalline rocks in Southern Sinai. The latter is supposed to be the recharge area of the Nubian Sandstone waters. Although the uranium value group discretes water bodies no conclusion can be drawn as to the origin of the Nubian Sandstone waters. Due to the results artesian leakage from the Nubian Sandstone into the overlying aquifers probably can be ruled out

The presence of radioactive materials in soil, sand and sediment samples of Potenga sea beach area, Chittagong, Bangladesh: Geological characteristics and environmental implication

Science.gov (United States)

Yasmin, Sabina; Barua, Bijoy Sonker; Uddin Khandaker, Mayeen; Kamal, Masud; Abdur Rashid, Md.; Abdul Sani, S. F.; Ahmed, H.; Nikouravan, Bijan; Bradley, D. A.

2018-03-01

Accurate quantification of naturally occurring radioactive materials in soil provides information on geological characteristics, possibility of petroleum and mineral exploration, radiation hazards to the dwelling populace etc. Of practical significance, the earth surface media (soil, sand and sediment) collected from the densely populated coastal area of Chittagong city, Bangladesh were analysed using a high purity germanium γ-ray spectrometer with low background radiation environment. The mean activities of 226Ra (238U), 232Th and 40K in the studied materials show higher values than the respective world average of 33, 36 and 474 Bq/kg reported by the UNSCEAR (2000). The deduced mass concentrations of the primordial radionuclides 238U, 232Th and 40K in the investigated samples are corresponding to the granite rocks, crustal minerals and typical rocks respectively. The estimated mean value of 232Th/238U for soil (3.98) and sediment (3.94) are in-line with the continental crustal average concentration of 3.82 for typical rock range reported by the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP). But the tonalites and more silicic rocks elevate the mean value of 232Th/238U for sand samples amounting to 4.69. This indicates a significant fractionation during weathering or associated with the metasomatic activity in the investigated area of sand collection.

Transfer of 40K, 238U, 210Pb, and 210Po from soil to plant in various locations in south of Syria

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Al-Masri, M.S.; Al-Akel, B.; Nashawani, A.; Amin, Y.; Khalifa, K.H.; Al-Ain, F.

2008-01-01

Transfer factors of 40 K, 238 U, 210 Pb, and 210 Po from soil to some agriculture crops in various locations in south of Syria (Dara'a and Assuwaydaa districts) have been determined. Soil and vegetable crops (green pepper, cucumber, tomato, and eggplant), legumes crops (lentil, chickpea, and broad bean), fruit trees (apple, grape, and olives) and cereals (barley and wheat) were collected and analyzed for 238 U, 210 Pb, and 210 Po. The results have shown that higher transfer factors (calculated as Bq kg -1 dry wt. plant material per Bq kg -1 dry wt. soil) for 210 Po, 210 Pb and 238 U were observed in vegetable leaves than fruits and cereals leaves; the highest values of transfer factor (TF) for 238 U were found to be 0.1 for straw of chickpea. Transfer factors for 210 Po varied between 2.8 x 10 -2 and 2 in fruits of eggplant and grain of barley, respectively. In addition, several parameters affecting transfer factors of the radionuclides were evaluated. The results can be considered as base values for TF of natural radionuclides in the region

Isotopic resolution of fission fragments from 238U + 12C transfer and fusion reactions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Caamano, M.; Rejmund, F.; Derkx, X.; Schmidt, K. H.; Andouin, L.; Bacri, C. O.; Barreau, G.; Benlliure, J.; Casarejos, E.; Fernandez-Dominguez, B.; Gaudefroy, L.; Golabek, C.; Jurado, B.; Lemasson, A.; Navin, A.; Rejmund, M.; Roger, T.; Shrivastava, A.; Schmitt, C.; Taieb, J.

2010-01-01

Recent results from an experiment at GANIL, performed to investigate the main properties of fission-fragment yields and energy distributions in different fissioning nuclei as a function of the excitation energy, in a neutron-rich region of actinides, are presented. Transfer reactions in inverse kinematics between a 238 U beam and a 12 C target produced different actinides, within a range of excitation energy below 30 MeV. These fissioning nuclei are identified by detecting the target-like recoil, and their kinetic and excitation energy are determined from the reconstruction of the transfer reaction. The large-acceptance spectrometer VAMOS was used to identify the mass, atomic number and charge state of the fission fragments in flight. As a result, the characteristics of the fission-fragment isotopic distributions of a variety of neutron-rich actinides are observed for the first time over the complete range of fission fragments. (authors)

Isotopic production cross-sections and recoil velocities of spallation-fission fragments in the reaction 238U(1A GeV)+e

CERN Document Server

Pereira, J; Wlazlo, W; Benlliure, J; Casarejos, E; Armbruster, P; Bernas, M; Enqvist, T; Legrain, R; Leray, S; Rejmund, F; Mustapha, B; Schmidt, K.-H; Stéphan, C; Taïeb, J; Tassan-Got, L; Volant, C; Boudard, A; Czajkowski, S; 10.1103/PhysRevC.75.014602

2007-01-01

Fission fragments of 1A GeV 238U nuclei interacting with a deuterium target have been investigatedwith the Fragment Separator (FRS) at GSI (Darmstadt) by measuring their isotopicproduction cross-sections and recoil velocities. The results, along with those obtained recently forspallation-evaporation fragments, provide a comprehensive analysis of the spallation nuclear productionsin the reaction 238U(1A GeV)+d. Details about experiment performance, data reductionand results will be presented.

A dispersive optical model potential for nucleon induced reactions on 238U and 232Th nuclei with full coupling

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Chiba Satoshi

2013-03-01

Full Text Available A dispersive coupled-channel optical model potential (DCCOMP that couples the ground-state rotational and low-lying vibrational bands of 238U and 232Th nuclei is studied. The derived DCCOMP couples almost all excited levels below 1 MeV of excitation energy of the corresponding even-even actinides. The ground state, octupole, beta, gamma, and non-axial bands are coupled. The first two isobar analogue states (IAS populated in the quasi-elastic (p,n reaction are also coupled in the proton induced calculation, making the potential approximately Lane consistent. The coupled-channel potential is based on a soft-rotor description of the target nucleus structure, where dynamic vibrations are considered as perturbations of the rigid rotor underlying structure. Matrix elements required to use the proposed structure model in Tamura coupled-channel scheme are derived. Calculated ratio R(U238/Th232 of the total cross-section difference to the averaged σT for 238U and 232Th nuclei is shown to be in excellent agreement with measured data.

Evaluation of covariances for resolved resonance parameters of 235U, 238U, and 239Pu in JENDL-3.2

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kawano, Toshihiko; Shibata, Keiichi

2003-02-01

Evaluation of covariances for resolved resonance parameters of 235 U, 238 U, and 239 Pu was carried out. Although a large number of resolved resonances are observed for major actinides, uncertainties in averaged cross sections are more important than those in resonance parameters in reactor calculations. We developed a simple method which derives a covariance matrix for the resolved resonance parameters from uncertainties in the averaged cross sections. The method was adopted to evaluate the covariance data for some important actinides, and the results were compiled in the JENDL-3.2 covariance file. (author)

Distribution of 238U, 232Th, 40K, and 137Cs concentrations in soil samples nearby a nuclear laboratory, Capao Island, Brazil

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Oliveira Luciano S.R.

2015-01-01

Full Text Available Absolute soil concentrations of 238U, 232Th, 40K, and 137Cs samples were measured using high-resolution gamma spectrometry. The area of interest encompasses an embankment in a mangrove swamp in Guaratiba, Rio de Janeiro, called Capao Island, where nuclear, chemical and biological defense laboratories of the Brazilian Army Technology Center are in operation for more than 30 years. In order to ensure that no significant environmental impact has resulted from neutron physics experiments performed in a graphite exponential pile in addition to the operation of two cesium-driven irradiating facilities, radiation monitoring of the isotopes was carried out. A total of eight 250 ml soil samples were extracted within an area of 300 m x 300 m. No trace of 137Cs was detected and the measured levels of 238U were found to be close to the global mean. However, some data that slightly exceeded the expected normal range for 232Th (60 % of samples and 40K (20 % of samples should be attributed to the construction debris (cement, rocks, and sand used in the embankment at the site. Since there is no handling of those isotopes at that site or adjacent facilities that could affect their presence, it was concluded that no detectable contamination has occurred.

Mass dependence of azimuthal asymmetry in the fission of 232Th and 233,235,236,238U by polarized photons

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Denyak, V.V.; Khvastunov, V.M.; Paschuk, S.A.; Schelin, H.R.

2013-01-01

Fission of the even-even nuclei 232 Th, 236,238 U and even-odd nuclei 233,235 U by linearly polarized photons has been studied at excitation energies in the region of a giant dipole resonance. The performed investigations unambiguously showed the existence of the fragment mass dependence of the cross section azimuthal asymmetry in the photofission of 236 U and 238 U. In addition, the obtained results provided the first evidence for the possible difference between the asymmetry values in asymmetric and symmetric mass distribution regions in the case of 236 U. The measured cross section azimuthal asymmetry of the fission of 232 Th does not show any fragment mass dependence. In the even-odd nuclei 233 U and 235 U the difference between the far-asymmetric and other mass distribution regions was also observed but with the statistical uncertainty not small enough for definitive conclusion. (orig.)

Fission cross sections of {sup 235,238}U and {sup 209}Bi at incident proton energies above 70 MeV

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Obukhov, A I; Rimskij-Korsakov, A A; Eismont, V P [V.G. Khlopin Radium Inst., St. Petersburg (Russian Federation)

1997-06-01

The proton fission cross-section data of {sup 235,238}U and Bi were measured in the V.G. Khlopin Radium Institute over a wide proton energy range. The experimental and calculated data were also compared with experimental neutron values. The proton cross-section of {sup 235,238}U increased up to 60-70 MeV and then decreased. The bismuth proton fission cross-section increased in line with the rise in proton energy up to 1 GeV. (author). 21 refs, 6 figs.

Geochemical and multi-isotopic (87Sr/86Sr, 143Nd/144Nd, 238U/235U) perspectives of sediment sources, depositional conditions, and diagenesis of the Marcellus Shale, Appalachian Basin, USA

Science.gov (United States)

Phan, Thai T.; Gardiner, James B.; Capo, Rosemary C.; Stewart, Brian W.

2018-02-01

We investigate sediment sources, depositional conditions and diagenetic processes affecting the Middle Devonian Marcellus Shale in the Appalachian Basin, eastern USA, a major target of natural gas exploration. Multiple proxies, including trace metal contents, rare earth elements (REE), the Sm-Nd and Rb-Sr isotope systems, and U isotopes were applied to whole rock digestions and sequentially extracted fractions of the Marcellus shale and adjacent units from two locations in the Appalachian Basin. The narrow range of εNd values (from -7.8 to -6.4 at 390 Ma) is consistent with derivation of the clastic sedimentary component of the Marcellus Shale from a well-mixed source of fluvial and eolian material of the Grenville orogenic belt, and indicate minimal post-depositional alteration of the Sm-Nd system. While silicate minerals host >80% of the REE in the shale, data from sequentially extracted fractions reflect post-depositional modifications at the mineralogical scale, which is not observed in whole rock REE patterns. Limestone units thought to have formed under open ocean (oxic) conditions have δ238U values and REE patterns consistent with modern seawater. The δ238U values in whole rock shale and authigenic phases are greater than those of modern seawater and the upper crust. The δ238U values of reduced phases (the oxidizable fraction consisting of organics and sulfide minerals) are ∼0.6‰ greater than that of modern seawater. Bulk shale and carbonate cement extracted from the shale have similar δ238U values, and are greater than δ238U values of adjacent limestone units. We suggest these trends are due to the accumulation of chemically and, more likely, biologically reduced U from anoxic to euxinic bottom water as well as the influence of diagenetic reactions between pore fluids and surrounding sediment and organic matter during diagenesis and catagenesis.

A study on physical characteristics of supercritical light - water reactor loaded with (232U-238Th-238U) oxide fuel

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kulikov, E. G.; Shmelev, A. N.; Apse, V. A.; Kulikov, G. G.

2007-01-01

The attractiveness of using (U-Th)-fuel in supercritical light water reactor is considered. The dilution of 2 33U in 2 38U is proposed with the purpose of increasing non-proliferation of this fissile isotope. Comparison of different fuel compositions is accomplished from the point of view of fissile isotope breeding and achieved burn-up; parasitic neutron absorption cross-sections are also compared. It is analyzed the impact for neutron balance of both cladding materials: zirconium alloy and stainless steel

Neutron Induced Capture and Fission Processes on 238U

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Oprea Cristiana

2016-01-01

Full Text Available Nuclear data on Uranium isotopes are of crucial interest for new generation of nuclear reactors. Processes of interest are the nuclear reactions induced by neutrons and in this work mainly the capture and the fission process on 238U will be analyzed in a wide energy interval. For slow and resonant neutrons the many levels Breit – Wigner formalism is necessary. In the case of fast and very fast neutrons up to 200 MeV the nuclear reaction mechanism implemented in Talys will be used. The present evaluations are necessary in order to obtain the field of neutrons in the design of nuclear reactors and they are compared with experimental data from literature obtained from capture and (n,xn processes.

Study on the radioactivity and soil-to-plant transfer factor of 226Ra, 234U and 238U radionuclides in irrigated farms from the northwestern Saudi Arabia

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Al-Hamarneh, Ibrahim F.; Alkhomashi, N.; Almasoud, Fahad I.

2016-01-01

The present study addresses the soil-to-plant transfer factors (TFs) of 226 Ra, 234 U and 238 U for 13 types of vegetables and agricultural crops planted under semi-arid environment in the northwestern part of Saudi Arabia. Crop plants along with plant-growing soils were collected from selected farms, which are irrigated from the non-renewable Saq aquifer, and investigated for their radioactivity content by means of alpha spectrometry after applying a radiochemical separation procedure. Hence, TF data for plant roots, green parts (stem and leaves) and fruits were calculated and contrasted to those reported in the literature. Substantial differences were observed in the TFs of Ra and U radioisotopes among plant species. In crop fruits, eggplant exhibited the highest uptake of 226 Ra (TF value of 0.11), while beans (0.16) have the highest TF for 234 U and 238 U. The geometric mean TF values indicated that the crop roots tend to accumulate Ra and U about four to six-folds higher than fruits. The relation between TF values and soil concentrations showed a weak correlation. Activity ratios between radionuclides in crop plants indicated the preferential translocation of U in fruits than Ra even though Ra is more available for root uptake. The fruit/root (F/R) ratios obtained for the investigated plants shown that pepper had the smallest F/R ratios (0.07 ± 0.01, 0.12 ± 0.02 and 0.11 ± 0.02 for 226 Ra, 234 U and 238 U, respectively), while the highest F/R ratios were observed in potatoes (0.71 ± 0.15, 0.44 ± 0.10 and 0.40 ± 0.08 for 226 Ra, 234 U and 238 U, respectively). The TF and F/R ratios data of natural radionuclides in the study region can hopefully improve the scientific knowledge for future studies. - Highlights: • Ra and U isotopes were measured in soils and plant crops in farms in Saudi Arabia. • Ra and U activities in plant roots (R) slightly exceeded that in their fruits (F). • Ra/U activity ratios showed preferential translocation of U

238U neutron-induced fission cross section for incident neutron energies between 5 eV and 3.5 MeV

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Difilippo, F.C.; Perez, R.B.; de Saussure, G.; Olsen, D.K.; Ingle, R.W.

1979-01-01

A measurement of the 238 U neutron-induced fission cross section was performed at the ORELA Linac facility in the neutron energy range between 5 eV and 3.5 MeV. The favorable signal-to-background ratio and high resolution of this experiment resulted in the identificaion of 85 subthreshold fission resonances or clusters of resonances in the neutron energy region between 5 eV and 200 keV. The fission data below 100 keV are characteristic of a weak coupling situation between Class I and Class II levels. The structure of the fission levels at the 720 eV and 1210 eV fission clusters is discussed. There is an apparent enhancement of the fission cross section at the opening of the 2 + neutron inelastic channel in 238 U at 45 keV. An enhancement of the subthreshold fission cross section between 100 keV and 200 keV is tentatively interpreted in terms of the presence of a Class II, partially damped vibrational level. There is a marked structure in the fission cross section above 200 keV up to and including the plateau between 2 and 3.5 MeV. 11 figures and 6 tables

Neutron capture cross section measurement of $^{238}$U at the n_TOF CERN facility in the energy region from 1 eV to 700 keV

CERN Document Server

Mingrone, F; Vannini, G; Colonna, N; Gunsing, F; Zugec, P; Altstadt, S; Andrzejewski, J; Audouin, L; Barbagallo, M; Becares, V; Becvavr, F; Belloni, F; Berthoumieux, E; Billowes, J; Bosnar, D; Brugger, M; Calviani, M; Calvino, F; Cano-Ott, D; Carrapico, C; Cerutti, F; Chiaveri, E; Chin, M; Cortes, G; Cortes-Giraldo, M A; Diakaki, M; Domingo-Pardo, C; Duran, I; Dressler, R; Eleftheriadis, C; Ferrari, A; Fraval, K; Ganesan, S; Garcia, A R; Giubrone, G; Goncalves, I F; Gonzalez-Romero, E; Griesmayer, E; Guerrero, C; Hernandez-Prieto, A; Jenkins, D G; Jericha, E; Kadi, Y; Kappeler, F; Karadimos, D; Kivel, N; Koehler, P; Kokkoris, M; Krticka, M; Kroll, J; Lampoudis, C; Langer, C; Leal-Cidoncha, E; Lederer, C; Leeb, H; Leong, L S; Lo Meo, S; Losito, R; Mallick, A; Manousos, A; Marganiec, J; Martinez, T; Mastinu, P F; Mastromarco, M; Mendoza, E; Mengoni, A; Milazzo, P M; Mirea Horia, M; Mondalaers, W; Paradela, C; Pavlik, A; Perkowski, J; Plompen, A; Praena, J; Quesada, J M; Rauscher, T; Reifarth, R; Riego, A; Robles, M S; Rubbia, C; Sabate-Gilarte, M; Sarmento, R; Saxena, A; Schillebeeckx, P; Schmidt, S; Schumann, D; Tagliente, G; LTain, J; Tarrio, D; Tassan-Got, L; Tsinganis, A; Valenta, S; Variale, V; Vaz, P; Ventura, A; Vermeulen, M J; Vlachoudis, V; Vlastou, R; Wallner, A; Ware, T; Weigand, M; Weiss, C; Wright, T

2016-01-01

The aim of this work is to provide a precise and accurate measurement of the $^{238}$U(n,$\\gamma$) reaction cross section in the energy region from 1 eV to 700 keV. This reaction is of fundamental importance for the design calculations of nuclear reactors, governing the behaviour of the reactor core. In particular, fast reactors, which are experiencing a growing interest for their ability to burn radioactive waste, operate in the high energy region of the neutron spectrum. In this energy region most recent evaluations disagree due to inconsistencies in the existing measurements of up to 15%. In addition, the assessment of nuclear data uncertainty performed for innovative reactor systems shows that the uncertainty in the radiative capture cross-section of $^{238}$U should be further reduced to 1-3% in the energy region from 20 eV to 25 keV. To this purpose, addressed by the Nuclear Energy Agency as a priority nuclear data need, complementary experiments, one at the GELINA and two at the n_TOF facility, were pr...

Influence of the cosmic-ray induced fission tracks on the fission track of extraterrestric minerals via the 238U spontaneous fission

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Damm, G.; Thiel, K.

1977-01-01

The age determined by counting fission tracks of lunar and meteorite materials is obviously falsified by additional fission track parts not to be accounted for by the spontaneous fission of uranium 238. For this p and n induced fissions of U, Th and other hreavy elements through the cosmic radiation come into consideration. In order to determine the possible part of such interference factors, a simulation experiment at the proton synchrocycloton (CERN, Geneva) has been carried out and independently of this, the production rates for the p and n induced U, Th, Bi, Pb and Au in the surface-near regolith layers of the moon were calculated. It could be seen that the irradiation age as well as the spacial distribution of the heavy metals in the samples to be dated must be considered. (RB) [de

Determination of 233U, 235U, 238U and 239Pu fission yields induced by fission and 14.7 MeV neutrons

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Laurec, Jean; Adam, Albert; Bruyne, Thierry de.

1981-12-01

The 233 U, 235 U, 238 U, 239 Pu fission yields have been determined by a radiochemical method. A target and a fission chamber made of same fissible material are irradied together. The total fission number is measured from the fission chamber. The fission product activities are directly measured on the target using calibrated Ge-Li detectors. The fissible material masses are determined by alpha and mass spectrometries. The irradiations were made on the critical assemblies PROSPERO and CALIBAN and on the 14 MeV neutron generator of C.E. VALDUC. 3 to 5% fission yield errors are got for the most measured nuclides: 95 Zr, 97 Zr, 99 Mo, 103 Ru, 131 I, 132 Te, 140 Ba, 141 Ce, 143 Ce, 144 Ce, 147 Nd [fr

Study of 236U/238U ratio at CIRCE using a 16-strip silicon detector with a TOF system

Science.gov (United States)

De Cesare, M.; De Cesare, N.; D'Onofrio, A.; Gialanella, L.; Terrasi, F.

2015-04-01

Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) is presently the most sensitive technique for the measurement of long-lived actinides, e.g. 236U and xPu isotopes. A new actinide AMS system, based on a 3-MV pelletron tandem accelerator, is operated at the Center for Isotopic Research on Cultural and Environmental Heritage (CIRCE) in Caserta, Italy. In this paper we report on the procedure adopted to increase the 236U abundance sensitivity as low as possible. The energy and position determinations of the 236U ions, using a 16-strip silicon detector have been obtained. A 236U/238U isotopic ratio background level of about 2.9×10-11 was obtained, summing over all the strips, using a Time of Flight-Energy (TOF-E) system with a 16-strip silicon detector (4.9×10-12 just with one strip).

Evidence for contamination of recent Hawaiian lavas from 230Th-238U data

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Condomines, M.; Bernat, M.; Allegre, C.J.

1976-01-01

230 Th- 238 U radioactive disequilibrium was studied in the historical lava flows of the Mauna Loa and Kilauea, Hawaii. Large variations of the ( 230 Th/ 232 Th) ratio among lavas of the same volcano that were erupted at a few years' interval are interpreted as due to contamination. The contamination probably occurs by assimilation of zeolitic minerals formed by seawater interaction while the magma resides in a superficial chamber. (Auth.)

Transfer of 210Po, 210Pb and 238U from some medicinal plants to their essential oils

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Al-Masri, M.S.; Amin, Y.; Ibrahim, S.; Nassri, M.

2015-01-01

Essential oils were extracted from 35 medicinal plants used by Syrians, organic compounds were determined in these oils and concentrations of 210 Po 210 Pb and 238 U were determined in the original plants and in the essential oils. The results showed that the highest activity concentrations of 210 Po and 210 Pb were found in leaves with large surfaces and in Sage were as high as 73.5 Bq kg −1 and 73.2 Bq kg −1 , respectively. The activity concentration of 238 U was as high as 4.26 Bq kg −1 in Aloe. On the other hand, activity concentrations of 210 Po ranged between 0.2 and 71.1 Bq kg −1 in extracted essential oils for Rosemary and False yellowhead, respectively. The activity concentration of 210 Pb reached 63.7 Bq kg −1 in Aloe oil. The activity concentrations of 238 U were very low in all extracted oils; the highest value was 0.31 Bq kg −1 in peel of Orange oil. The transfer of 210 Po and 210 Pb from plant to its oil was the highest for Eugenia; 7.1% and 5.5% for 210 Po and 210 Pb, respectively. A linear relationship was found between the transfer factor of radionuclides from plant to its essential oil and the chemical content of this oil. - Highlights: • Natural radionuclides 210 Po, 210 Pb and 238 U were determined in 35 medicinal plants and their essential oils. • The highest activity concentration of 210 Po and 210 Pb were 73.5 Bq kg −1 and 73.2 Bq kg −1 in Sage, respectively. • The transfer of 210 Po and 210 Pb from Eugenia plant to its oil was the highest amongst other plants. • The data obtained in this study can be considered the first reported data for medicinal plants and their oils in Syria

Dicty_cDB: SLH238 [Dicty_cDB

Lifescience Database Archive (English)

Full Text Available SL (Link to library) SLH238 (Link to dictyBase) - G22491 DDB0188118 Contig-U04168-1 SLH2...38F (Link to Original site) SLH238F 383 - - - - - - Show SLH238 Library SL (Link to library) Clone ID SLH2...riginal site URL http://dictycdb.biol.tsukuba.ac.jp/CSM/SL/SLH2-B/SLH238Q.Seq.d/ ...Representative seq. ID SLH238F (Link to Original site) Representative DNA sequence >SLH238 (SLH238Q) /CSM/SL/SLH2-B/SLH2...e E Sequences producing significant alignments: (bits) Value SLH238 (SLH238Q) /CSM/SL/SLH2-B/SLH2

Possible viscosity effects in neutron-induced fission of 232Th and 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gindler, J.E.; Glendenin, L.E.; Wilkins, B.D.

1979-01-01

Fission yields induced in the 238 U(n,f) and 232 Th(n,f) reactions were determined as a function of incident neutron energy (E/sub n/). The ratio of 115 Cd-to- 140 Ba yields as a function of E/sub n/ is analyzed by means of the equation Y 1 /Y 2 = exp[2(a 1 (E/sub n/+E 1 )/sup 1/2/ -2(a 2 (E/sub n/+E 2 )/sup 1/2/] to give values of a/sub i/, the level density parameter, and E/sub i/, the excitation energy for E/sub n/=0. The energies E/sub i/ are interpreted on the basis of the liquid drop model with shell and pairing corrections. Values are deduced for the energy dissipated by viscosity effects in the descent from the saddle point to the point where masses are fixed in the fissioning nucleus. These values are 1.7 MeV for 232 Th(n,f) and 4.8 MeV for 238 U(n,f). These values are consistent with the experimental observation that anti ν/sub p/ is approx. 0.6 neutron greater for 239 U fission than for 233 Th fission and that strong odd--even (nucleon pairing) effects are found in the fragment total kinetic energy distribution for 230 Th fission but not for 234 U fission. The low dissipation energy values together with the low values of pre-scission kinetic energy deduced by Guet, et al., [Nucl. Phys. A134 (1971)1] indicate a shorter path from the saddle point of the fissioning nucleus to scission than is generally assumed in theoretical calculations. 31 references

49 CFR 238.229 - Safety appliances-general.

Science.gov (United States)

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Safety appliances-general. 238.229 Section 238.229... Equipment § 238.229 Safety appliances—general. (a) Except as provided in this part, all passenger equipment continues to be subject to the safety appliance requirements contained in Federal statute at 49 U.S.C...

Energy spectra of neutrons accompanying the emission fission of 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Smirenkin, G.N.; Lovchikova, G.N.; Trufanov, A.M.; Svirin, M.I.; Polyakov, A.V.; Vinogradov, V.A.; Dmitriev, V.D.; Boykov, G.S.

1996-01-01

The spectra of fission neutrons emitted from 238U are measured for the first time by the time-of-flight method at incident-neutron energies of 16.0 and 17.7 MeV. Analysis of the neutron spectra shows that experimental results at incident-neutron energies of 14.7, 16.0, and 17.7 MeV (above the threshold of chance fission) differ significantly from those obtained at a neutron energy of 2.9 MeV (below the threshold of chance fission). Owing to the prefission emission of neutrons, the observed spectra of neutrons from emission fission exhibit a characteristic growth of the neutron yield in both hard and soft sections of the spectrum of secondary neutrons. This growth manifests itself as a step in the first case and as a rise in the second case, where it results in a noticeable excess of neutrons over the statistical-model predictions for E<2 MeV. The first feature in the spectra of neutrons from emission fission can be associated with the nonequilibrium decay of an excited fissile nucleus. On the contrary, the origin of the second feature has yet to be clarified. Additional measurements of angular distributions of secondary neutrons may prove helpful in this respect

Sorption study of 226Ra(II) et 238U(VI) on to peat organic matter, in mining environment

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bordelet, Gabrielle

2014-01-01

The environmental footprint of former uranium mining sites is a major concern for society. In order to guarantee the protection of ecosystems and thus a minimal radiological impact on the biosphere, it is important to understand and to be able to model the phenomena controlling the migration of uranium and its decay products, specially radium ( 226 Ra) (AREVA's Envir-at-Mines project). In the environment, among solid phases which can retain 238 U(VI) and 226 Ra(II), peat is known to have relevant affinity for U(VI). Because peat is usually composed at 90% dry weight of organic matter, the aim of this study was to qualify and quantify peat organic matter affinity for 238 U(VI) and 226 Ra(II). Peat samples extracted from Les Sagnes (close to a former uranium mining site in Limousin area, France) was characterised and batch adsorption/desorption experiments were conducted. The results indicate that 226 Ra(II) adsorption onto that peat is higher than 97% for pH ≥ 4-6 (depending on the organic/mineral ratio in dry peat) corresponding to K d values about 4500 ± 500 mL/g and 238 U(VI) adsorption is higher than 80% at pH ≥ 3 with K d maximal values reaching 11000 mL/g around pH 4.5. Only a little desorption was measured after one month. An ion exchange modelling for radium adsorption onto one type of organic matter sorption site was enough to fit the experimental adsorption K d for the peat over the whole range of pH. However, uranium sorption on peat can be modelled on that organic sorption site only from pH 1 to 5. From pH 5 to 10, to explain the experimental uranium adsorption K d values (close to 1500 mL/g), uranium sorption onto mineral phases (such as smectite and iron oxide in this study) has to be considered. An operational data set is given for both 238 U(VI) and 226 Ra(II) sorption onto Les Sagnes peat. Unlike usual peat, peat from Les Sagnes contains more than 10% dry weight of mineral matter. That is why it is necessary to model sorption of those two

Beta and gamma decay heat measurements between 0.1s--50,000s for neutron fission of 235U, 238U and 239Pu. Final report, June 1, 1992--December 31, 1996

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Schier, W.A.; Couchell, G.P.

1996-01-01

This is a final reporting on the composition of separate beta and gamma decay heat measurements following neutron fission of 235 U and 238 U and 239 Pu and on cumulative and independent yield measurements of fission products of 235 U and 238 U. What made these studies unique was the very short time of 0.1 s after fission that could be achieved by incorporating the helium jet and tape transport system as the technique for transporting fission fragments from the neutron environment of the fission chamber to the low-background environment of the counting area. This capability allowed for the first time decay heat measurements to extend nearly two decades lower on the logarithmic delay time scale, a region where no comprehensive aggregate decay heat measurements had extended to. This short delay time capability also allowed the measurement of individual fission products with half lives as short as 0.2s. The purpose of such studies was to provide tests both at the aggregate level and at the individual nuclide level of the nation's evaluated nuclear data file associated with fission, ENDF/B-VI. The results of these tests are in general quite encouraging indicating this data base generally predicts correctly the aggregate beta and aggregate gamma decay heat as a function of delay time for 235 U, 238 U and 239 Pu. Agreement with the measured individual nuclide cumulative and independent yields for fission products of 235 U and 238 U was also quite good although the present measurements suggest needed improvements in several individual cases

Sensitivity analysis of U238 cross section in thermal nuclear systems

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Amorim, E.S. do; D'Oliveira, A.B.; Oliveira, E.C. de; Moura Neto, C. de.

1980-01-01

A sensitivity analysis system is developed for assessing the implication of uncertainties in nuclear data and related computational methods for light water power reactor. Sensitivies, at equilibrium cycle condition, are carried out for the few group macroscopic cross section of the U 238 with respect to their 35 group microscopic absorption cross section using the batch depletion code SENTEAV similar to those calculation methods used in the industry. This investigation indicates that improvements are requested on specific range of energy. These results point out the direction for worth while experimental measurements based on an analysis of costs and economic benefits. (Author) [pt

Natural Radiation in byproducts of the production of phosphoric acid

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Silveira, Marcilei A. Guazzelli da; Cardoso, L.L.; Medina, N.H.

2014-01-01

Natural radiation is the largest source of radiation exposure to which man is subject. It is formed basically by cosmic radiation and the radionuclides present in the Earth crust, as 40 K and the elements of the decay series of 232 Th and 238 U. Phosphate ores, which constitutes the raw material for the production of phosphoric acid, have a high rate of natural radiation from the decay series of 232 Th and 238 U. Phosphogypsum, which is naturally radioactivity, is a by-product of the production of phosphoric acid by the wet method. For each ton of phosphoric acid it is produced about 4.5 tons of phosphogypsum. This work presents the analysis of samples collected in all stages of the manufacturing process of phosphoric acid, which generates the phosphogypsum. Gamma-ray spectrometry was used to measure the concentration of the elements of the decay series of 232 Th and 238 U. All analyzed samples showed a high concentration of radionuclides, promoting the need for further steps in the process in order to reduce the presence of such radionuclides in the phosphogypsum. The results indicate the radionuclide 238 U has higher contribution in some samples of the intermediate stages of the process. All samples exceeded the international average range of human exposure to terrestrial gamma radiation, which is 0.3 to 1.0 mSv/year. (author)

Study of 236U/238U ratio at CIRCE using a 16-strip silicon detector with a TOF system

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

De Cesare M.

2015-01-01

Full Text Available Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS is presently the most sensitive technique for the measurement of long-lived actinides, e.g. 236U and xPu isotopes. A new actinide AMS system, based on a 3-MV pelletron tandem accelerator, is operated at the Center for Isotopic Research on Cultural and Environmental Heritage (CIRCE in Caserta, Italy. In this paper we report on the procedure adopted to increase the 236U abundance sensitivity as low as possible. The energy and position determinations of the 236U ions, using a 16-strip silicon detector have been obtained. A 236U/238U isotopic ratio background level of about 2.9×10−11 was obtained, summing over all the strips, using a Time of Flight-Energy (TOF-E system with a 16-strip silicon detector (4.9×10−12 just with one strip.

Fission Product Yields of 233U, 235U, 238U and 239Pu in Fields of Thermal Neutrons, Fission Neutrons and 14.7-MeV Neutrons

Science.gov (United States)

Laurec, J.; Adam, A.; de Bruyne, T.; Bauge, E.; Granier, T.; Aupiais, J.; Bersillon, O.; Le Petit, G.; Authier, N.; Casoli, P.

2010-12-01

The yields of more than fifteen fission products have been carefully measured using radiochemical techniques, for 235U(n,f), 239Pu(n,f) in a thermal spectrum, for 233U(n,f), 235U(n,f), and 239Pu(n,f) reactions in a fission neutron spectrum, and for 233U(n,f), 235U(n,f), 238U(n,f), and 239Pu(n,f) for 14.7 MeV monoenergetic neutrons. Irradiations were performed at the EL3 reactor, at the Caliban and Prospero critical assemblies, and at the Lancelot electrostatic accelerator in CEA-Valduc. Fissions were counted in thin deposits using fission ionization chambers. The number of fission products of each species were measured by gamma spectrometry of co-located thick deposits.

Measurement of double differential cross sections of secondary neutrons from 238U, 209Bi, Fe and 9Be around 10 MeV

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Qi Bujia; Tang Hongqing; Zhou Zuying

1995-01-01

Double differential cross sections of 238 U, 209 Bi, Fe and 9 Be around 10 MeV are measured at 5 or 6 or 8 angles between 35 degree and 120 degree by means of both normal and abnormal TOF spectrometers using T(d,n) neutron source. The present result of 9 Be is compared with existing experimental data. The data of 238 U and 209 Bi are compared with theoretical calculations. A good agreement is achieved

Interim assessment of the denatured 233U fuel cycle: feasibility and nonproliferation characteristics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Abbott, L.S.; Bartine, D.E.; Burns, T.J.

1979-12-01

A fuel cycle that employs 233 U denatured with 238 U and mixed with thorium fertile material is examined with respect to its proliferation-resistance characteristics and its technical and economic feasibility. The rationale for considering the denatured 233 U fuel cycle is presented, and the impact of the denatured fuel on the performance of Light-Water Reactors, Spectral-Shift-Controlled Reactors, Gas-Cooled Reactors, Heavy-Water Reactors, and Fast Breeder Reactors is discussed. The scope of the R, D and D programs to commercialize these reactors and their associated fuel cycles is also summarized and the resource requirements and economics of denatured 233 U cycles are compared to those of the conventional Pu/U cycle. In addition, several nuclear power systems that employ denatured 233 U fuel and are based on the energy center concept are evaluated

Measurement of fast neutron induced fission cross sections of 232Th, 238U, 237Np and 243Am

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kanda, Kazutaka; Sato, Osamu; Yoshida, Kazuo; Imaruoka, Hiromitsu; Terayama, Hiromichi; Yoshida, Masashi; Hirakawa, Naohiro

1984-01-01

Neutron induced fission cross sections of 232 Th, 238 U, 237 Np and 243 Am relative to 235 U were measured in the energy range from 1.5 to 6.6 MeV. The present results are compared with experimental results of others and evaluated data in JENDL-2 and ENDF/B-IV. (author)

Measurement of neutron-induced fission cross-sections of Th232, U238, U233 and Np237 relative to U235 from 1 MeV to 200 MeV

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Shcherbakov, O.A.; Laptev, A.B.; Petrov, G.A. [Petersburg Nuclear Physics Inst., Gatchina, Leningrad district (Russian Federation); Fomichev, A.V.; Donets, A.Y.; Osetrov, O.I.

1998-11-01

The measurements of neutron-induced cross-section ratios for Th232, U238, U233 and Np237 relative to U235 have been carried out in the energy range from 1 MeV up to 200 MeV using the neutron time-of-flight spectrometer GNEIS based on 1 GeV proton synchrocyclotron. Below 20 MeV, the results of present measurements are roughly in agreement with evaluated data though there are some discrepances to be resolved. (author)

Estimation of radionuclide concentration of 238U, 226Ra, 232Th in air in Wuhan city

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shi Jinhua; Chen Changhua

1989-01-01

The concentrations of 238 U, 226 Ra and 232 Th in air in Wuhan area were estimated by assuming that they originate from resuspended particles of soil and investigating the dust content in air and the concentrations of these radionuclides in soil. 60 soil samples were collected from April to October, 1984, and 7346 air dust samples during 1981-1985. The estimated mean air concentrations of 238 U, 226 Ra and 232 Th were 24.0 x 10 -9 , 18.9 x 10 -9 and 28.7 x 10 -9 , Bq/L, respectively. Their highest values were observed of 30.4 x 10 -9 , 23.9 x 10 -9 and 36.2 x 10 -9 Bq/L in 1983. Seasonal change of the concentrations was clear as shown in the data of 1984 and 1985, which was related to the meterological conditions. Among the 6 districts of Wuhan city, the highest concentration was in Qingshan and the lowest in Wuchang

Internal radiation due to bioaccumulated natural radionuclides ({sup 238}U and {sup 226}Ra) in some wild plants sampled from Singhbhum Thrust Belt

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Singh, V K [Co-operative College, Jamshedpur (India). Botany Dept.; Geeta, [Jamshedpur Women` s College, Jamshedpur (India). Botany Dept.

1995-01-01

Estimation of radioactivity (Bq/Kg dry Wt.) due to bioaccumulated {sup 238}U,{sup 226}Ra was carried out in six species of native plants growing in the non-occupational settings of Singhbhum Thrust Belt (STB). Due to medicinal and other economic values, these plants are used by the local people in their day to day life. Among the six species, Echinops echinatus excelled in the pick-up process of radionuclides. The rank decreased in the order: Echinops>Vitex>Cleistanthus>Ocimum>Holorrhoena>Lantana. (author). 14 refs., 2 tabs.

Study of Photon Strength Functions of Actinides: the case of U-235, Np-238 and Pu-241

CERN Document Server

Guerrero, C; Cano-Ott, D; Martinez, T; Mendoza, E; Villamarin, D; Colonna, N; Meaze, M H; Marrone, S; Tagliente, G; Terlizzi, R; Belloni, F; Abbondanno, U; Fujii, K; Milazzo, P M; Moreau, C; Aerts, G; Berthoumieux, E; Dridi, W; Gunsing, F; Pancin, J; Perrot, L; Plukis, A; Alvarez, H; Duran, I; Paradela, C; Andriamonje, S; Calviani, M; Chiaveri, E; Gonzalez-Romero, E; Kadi, Y; Vicente, M C; Vlachoudis, V; Andrzejewski, J; Marganiec, J; Assimakopoulos, P; Karadimos, D; Karamanis, D; Papachristodoulou, C; Patronis, N; Audouin, L; David, S; Ferrant, L; Isaev, S; Stephan, C; Tassan-Got, L; Badurek, G; Jericha, E; Leeb, H; Oberhummer, H; Pigni, M T; Baumann, P; Kerveno, M; Lukic, S; Rudolf, G; Becvar, F; Krticka, M; Calvino, F; Capote, R; Carrillo De Albornoz, A; Marques, L; Salgado, J; Tavora, L; Vaz, P; Cennini, P; Dahlfors, M; Ferrari, A; Gramegna, F; Herrera-Martinez, A; Mastinu, P; Praena, J; Sarchiapone, L; Wendler, H; Chepel, V; Ferreira-Marques, R; Goncalves, I; Lindote, A; Lopes, I; Neves, F; Cortes, G; Poch, A; Pretel, C; Couture, A; Cox, J; O'brien, S; Wiescher, M; Dillman, I; Kappeler, F; Mosconi, M; Plag, R; Voss, F; Walter, S; Wisshak, K; Dolfini, R; Rubbia, C; Domingo-Pardo, C; Tain, J L; Eleftheriadis, C; Savvidis, I; Frais-Koelbl, H; Griesmayer, E; Furman, W; Konovalov, V; Goverdovski, A; Ketlerov, V; Haas, B; Haight, R; Reifarth, R; Heil, M; Igashira, M; Koehler, P; Kossionides, E; Lampoudis, C; Lozano, M; Quesada, J; Massimi, C; Vannini, G; Mengoni, A; Oshima, M; Papadopoulos, C; Vlastou, R; Pavlik, A; Pavlopoulos, P; Plompen, A; Rullhusen, P; Rauscher, T; Rosetti, M; Ventura, A

2011-01-01

The decay from excited levels in medium and heavy nuclei can be described in a statistical approach by means of Photon Strength Functions and Level Density distributions combined with the theory of the compound. The study of electromagnetic cascades following neutron capture by means of high efficiency detectors has been shown to be well suited for probing the properties of the Photon Strength Function of heavy (high level density) and/or radioactive (high background) nuclei. In this work we have investigated for the first time the validity of the recommended PSF for actinides, in particular 235U, 238Np and 241Pu. Our study includes the search for resonance structures in the PSF below Sn and draws conclusions regarding their existence and their characteristics in terms of energy, width and electromagnetic nature.

Towards the high-accuracy determination of the 238U fission cross section at the threshold region at CERN – n_TOF

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Diakaki M.

2016-01-01

Full Text Available The 238U fission cross section is an international standard beyond 2 MeV where the fission plateau starts. However, due to its importance in fission reactors, this cross-section should be very accurately known also in the threshold region below 2 MeV. The 238U fission cross section has been measured relative to the 235U fission cross section at CERN – n_TOF with different detection systems. These datasets have been collected and suitably combined to increase the counting statistics in the threshold region from about 300 keV up to 3 MeV. The results are compared with other experimental data, evaluated libraries, and the IAEA standards.

A study of the differential cross section in subbarrier photofission of 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lindgren, L.J.; Sandell, A.

1977-03-01

A measurement of the angular distribution and yield of fission fragments from photofission of 238 U has been performed between 5.2 MeV and 6.4 MeV. As γ-source the bremsstrahlung from a microtron has been used. For the detection of the fission fragments solid state track detectors were used. The yield data were evaluated to approximate cross sections. The data were analyzed within the framework of the double hump barrier model. (Auth.)

Assessment of annual effective dose from 238U and 226Ra due to consumption of foodstuffs by inhabitants of Tehran city (IR)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hosseini, T.; Fathivand, A. A.; Abbasisiar, F.; Karimi, M.; Barati, H.

2006-01-01

The concentrations of 238 U and 226 Ra were determined in different foodstuffs purchased from markets in Tehran. Determinations of the radionuclides have been carried out using alpha spectrometry technique, on samples of egg, lentil, potato, rice, soya, spinach, tea and wheat. Average concentrations of natural radionuclides and foodstuff consumption rate were used to assess annual intake and based on intake values, the annual effective ingestion dose has been estimated for Tehran city residents. The measurement results show that soya has the maximum concentration of 238 U equal to 15.6 ± 2.6 mBq kg -1 and tea has the maximum concentration of 226 Ra equal to 1153.3 ± 265.3 mBq kg -1 . Besides, the maximum annual effective dose from 238 U and 226 Ra were assessed to be 2.88 x 10 -2 ±7.20 x 10 -3 and 2.15 ± 0.54 μSv, respectively, from wheat samples. (authors)

The effect of the 238U neutron strength function uncertainty on resonance structure calculations in unresolved regions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Koshcheev, V.N.; Manturov, G.N.; Sinitsa, V.V.

1991-01-01

The effects of the neutron strength function uncertainties on the calculated values of the self-shielding factors and energy dependence of the total and capture 238 U cross-sections in the unresolved resonance region are investigated. (author). 26 refs, 5 figs

Environmental geochemistry of 238U, 232Th, 40K and some heavy metals in River Nile sediments

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Siddeeg, S. M. B.

2007-06-01

Environmental geochemistry is concerned with the abundance, distribution, and mobility of chemical elements in surface materials at the surface of earth crust. This study aimed at better understanding of geochemical behavior of 238 U, 23 '2Th and 40 K in river sediments and some heavy elements with emphasis on Mg, Ca, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn and Pb. The analysis was conducted for a total of 33 bulk sediment samples from White Nile, Blue Nile and River Nile within Khartoum, the samples were fractionated into seven grain sizes each (2000-1000, 1000-500, 500-250, 250-200, 200-125, 125-100 and > 100 μm), using high resolution gamma spectrometer for radionuclides measurements, whereas Particle Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE) was used for heavy metals analysis. On the average, the activity concentration of 238 U, 232 Th and 40 K were 17.90±5.23, 16.38±5.34 and 379.82±107.76 Bq -1 Kg in White Nile, 19.56±5.04, 17.72±4.69, and 494.36±105.79 Bq -1 Kg in Blue Nile and 19.27±2.88, 17.48±2.78, 359.50±83.15 Bq -1 Kg in the River Nile sediments. Results revealed inverse relationship between activity concentration and grain size in White and Blue Nile, while the trend is not clear in the River Nile. In general, the variation of the measured values within single grain size was smaller in White Nile compare to Blue and River Nile sediments, and it was observed that the data are highly scattered in grain size (200-125μm). The ratio between 238 U/ 232 Th is grater than unity in the three rivers indicating that there is relative enrichment of 238 U in the surface sediments. The activity concentration of the fallout radionuclide 137 Cs is one order of magnitude lower in the White Nile sediments (0.89±0.96) Bq -1 Kg compared to values in the Blue Nile sediments (3.60±1.55) Bq -1 Kg. Comparison of the values obtained for natural radionuclides and the fallout radionuclide ( 137 Cs in the three sites with the global data reflect low and /or insignificant difference. For heavy metal

Determination of the activity of the uranium isotopes U-234, U-235 and U-238 in environmental samples by alpha spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kromphorn, G.

1996-02-01

Different materials containing urandium are regularly investigated in the Laboratory for Environmental Radioactivity of the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) with respect to the activity of the uranium isotopes ( 234 U, 235 U, and 238 U). Moreover for reasons of quality assurance, the PTB takes part in international comparisons where also uranium contents are to be determined in environmental samples and in the framework of which reference materials can be certified. Finally in national comparisons the PTB has the task to determine values of the specific activity for the different isotopes which can play the role of nominal (orientation) values. The single steps of uranium analyses are described after a compilation of the most important data of the uranium isotopes contained in natural uranium: The use of 232 U as tracer, the chemical separation analytics, the production of α-sources and the measuring methods. Analyses of a soil sample and a waste water sample with respect to their specific uranium activity have been chosen as examples of a practical application. (orig.) [de

Accumulation of 226Ra, 238U and 230Th by wetland plants in a vicinity of U-mill tailings at Zirovski vrh (Slovenia)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Marko Cerne; Borut Smodis; Marko Strok; Radojko Jacimovic

2010-01-01

The impact of a U-mill tailing on radionuclide accumulation by plants was assayed. In particular, a preliminary screening of 226 Ra, 238 U and 230 Th in Marsh marigold (Caltha palustris L.), soft rush (Juncus effusus L.) and Tall Moor grass (Molinia arundinacea (L.) Moench) grown in a marsh habitat is presented. Activity concentrations for the studied radionuclides and their transfer factors for the particular plants are shown and discussed. (author)

Dietary 232Th and 238U intakes for Japanese as obtained in a market basket study and contributions of imported foods to internal doses

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shiraishi, K.

1995-01-01

Thorium-232 and 238 U contents in four food groups were measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Daily intakes of 232 Th and 238 U for Japanese were estimated to 2.22 mBq and 15.5 mBq per person, respectively. Furthermore, preliminary estimations were made for the effects of imported foods on internal exposures for Japanese. (author). 16 refs., 1 fig., 3 tabs

Activity concentrations of 238U and 226Ra in scales formed on pipes of industrial boilers in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Poggi, Claudia M.B.; Farias, Emerson E.G. de; Gazineu, Maria H.P.

2015-01-01

The procedures employed in the industry can generate significant amounts of solid, liquid and gaseous wastes that usually contain toxic or materials of difficulty degradation. One of the facts that contribute to the formation of such wastes is the generation of steam used in operating processes and industry segments. Currently, steam supplied by boilers is the most economical and practical mode of heat transfer in industrial processes. Due to the high temperature of water used in these processes, compounds which were previously soluble become insoluble, generating residues called scales. This material, which contains stable ions, can also present naturally occurring radionuclides such as 238 U and 226 Ra, which concentrate over time in piping and equipment surfaces. If not disposed correctly, this material also can contaminate the environment. The main origin of these radionuclides is the use of groundwater in industrial processes. Thus, in regions of naturally enriched in radionuclides such as the Region of Pernambuco, including the municipalities of Paulista and Goiana, there is a greater possibility of radioactive scale formation. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the activity concentrations of 238 U and 226 Ra present in the solid wastes generated by industries situated in Paulista and Goiana, in order to assess radionuclide disequilibrium. For the sake of comparison, scale samples collected from industries located in the municipality of Caruaru, far from the previous municipalities, were also analyzed. The determination of the activity concentrations for 238 U and 226 Ra was performed by High Resolution Gamma-Ray Spectrometry. Samples were collected, prepared, packed in plastic containers and set aside for a minimum time of 21 days, for the secular equilibrium to occur between 226 Ra and its short lived descendants. The counting time was 80,000 seconds. Gamma energies used for determination of activity concentrations were 1001 keV for 238 U, and 352 ke

Fission product yields from 6 to 9 MeV neutron induced fission of 235U and 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chapman, T.C.

1978-01-01

The yields of 28 mass chains have been measured for fission of 235 U and 238 U induced by neutrons at four different energies from 6.0 to 9.1 MeV. This is the first experimental measurement where sufficient energy resolution was obtained to observe the effect of the onset of second-chance fission in the case of symmetric fission. The 111 Ag results are compared with measurements at other neutron energies and with previous theoretical predictions. Several of the nuclide results are presented in graphical form, and all nuclide results are presented in tabular form, as a function of neutron energy. The mass chains measured range from 84 to 156, and their half-lives range from 18 minutes to 30 years

Evaluation of fission cross sections and covariances for {sup 233}U, {sup 235}U, {sup 238}U, {sup 239}Pu, {sup 240}Pu, and {sup 241}Pu

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Kawano, Toshihiko [Kyushu Univ., Fukuoka (Japan); Matsunobu, Hiroyuki [Data Engineering, Inc. (Japan); Murata, Toru [AITEL Corporation, Tokyo (JP)] [and others

2000-02-01

A simultaneous evaluation code SOK (Simultaneous evaluation on KALMAN) has been developed, which is a least-squares fitting program to absolute and relative measurements. The SOK code was employed to evaluate the fission cross sections of {sup 233}U, {sup 235}U, {sup 238}U, {sup 239}Pu, {sup 240}Pu, and {sup 241}Pu for the evaluated nuclear data library JENDL-3.3. Procedures of the simultaneous evaluation and the experimental database of the fission cross sections are described. The fission cross sections obtained were compared with evaluated values given in JENDL-3.2 and ENDF/B-VI. (author)

238U series isotopes and 232Th in carbonates and black shales from the Lesser Himalaya: implications to dissolved uranium abundances in Ganga-Indus source waters

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Singh, S.K.; Dalai, Tarun K.; Krishnaswami, S.

2003-01-01

238 U and 232 Th concentrations and the extent of 238 U- 234 U- 230 Th radioactive equilibrium have been measured in a suite of Precambrian carbonates and black shales from the Lesser Himalaya. These measurements were made to determine their abundances in these deposits, their contributions to dissolved uranium budget of the headwaters of the Ganga and the Indus in the Himalaya and to assess the impact of weathering on 238 U- 234 U- 230 Th radioactive equilibrium in them. 238 U concentrations in Precambrian carbonates range from 0.06 to 2.07 μg g -1 . The 'mean' U/Ca in these carbonates is 2.9 ng U mg -1 Ca. This ratio, coupled with the assumption that all Ca in the Ganga-Indus headwaters is of carbonate origin and that U and Ca behave conservatively in rivers after their release from carbonates, provides an upper limit on the U contribution from these carbonates, to be a few percent of dissolved uranium in rivers. There are, however, a few streams with low uranium concentrations, for which the carbonate contribution could be much higher. These results suggest that Precambrian carbonates make only minor contributions to the uranium budget of the Ganga-Indus headwaters in the Himalaya on a basin wide scale, however, they could be important for particular streams. Similar estimates of silicate contribution to uranium budget of these rivers using U/Na in silicates and Na* (Na corrected for cyclic and halite contributions) in river waters show that silicates can contribute significantly (∼40% on average) to their U balance. If, however, much of the uranium in these silicates is associated with weathering resistant minerals, then the estimated silicate uranium component would be upper limits. Uranium concentration in black shales averages about 37 μg g -1 . Based on this concentration, supply of U from at least ∼50 mg of black shales per liter of river water is needed to balance the average river water U concentration, 1.7 μg L -1 in the Ganga-Indus headwaters

Experimental determination of nuclear reaction rates in 238U and 235U along of the radius of fuel pellets of the IPEN/MB-01 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mura, Luis Felipe Liambos

2015-01-01

This research presents and consolidates an alternative methodology for determining nuclear reaction rates along the radial direction of the fuel pellets which does not require high neutron flux. This technique is based on irradiating a thin UO 2 disk inserted into a removable fuel rod at the IPEN/MB-01 reactor core. Several gamma spectrometry are performed after irradiation using a HPGe detector. Six lead collimators with different diameters are sequentially alternated during this process, thus, the nuclear radioactive capture which occurs in 238 U and the fissions which occur in both 235 U and 238 U are measured according to six different radial regions of the fuel disk. Geometric efficiency corrections due to the introduction of collimators in HPGe detection system are determined by MCNP-5 code. The fission rate measurements are performed using the 99 Mo. This radionuclide was studied and proved ideal for these measurements because it is formed in linear behavior in the reactor core, have a high yield fission and emits low-energy photons. Measurements were performed irradiating UO 2 disks (with 4.3% enrichment) in the central position of the IPEN/MB-01 core at 100 watts power level during one hour. Some measurements were performed using a cadmium glove wrapped in the fuel rod to determine the nuclear reaction rates in the epithermal energy range. The experimental results obtained are compared with nuclear reaction rate calculations by means of MCNP-5 with ENDF/B-VII.0 data library showing discrepancies of up to 9% in 238 U capture rates and 14% for U fission rates for epithermal energies. Uncertainties regarding the nuclear capture rates have maximum values of 4.5% and the fission rates has maximum values of 11.3%. (author)

Decay of the isoscalar giant monopole resonance in 208Pb and 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Woude, A. van der

1985-01-01

In this paper, the neutron decay of the giant monopole resonance (GMR) of 208 Pb and the alpha decay of the GMR of 238 U is studied. The GMR is excited by inelastic alpha-scattering at small angles (0-3deg) using 120 MeV alpha particles. The interference of other processes like the knock-out process with the particle decay of these resonances is considered. Coincidence neutron and alpha spectra are presented, as well as E2/E0 strength distributions. (Auth.)

Revision of the inelastic scattering cross section evaluation of 238U for CENDL-2.1

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tang Guoyou; Zhang Guohui; Shi Zhaomin; Chen Jinxiang

1995-11-01

Revised evaluated data for the inelastic neutron scattering cross-section and the secondary neutron spectrum are presented for U-238 in graphical form, compared with the earlier data that exist in the evaluated nuclear data libraries ENDF/B-6 and JENDL-3. The new data will be included in the Chinese evaluated nuclear data library CENDL-2.1. (author). 14 refs, 9 figs

Photofission cross-section ratio measurement of 235U/238U using monoenergetic photons in the energy range of 9.0-16.6 MeV

Science.gov (United States)

Krishichayan; Bhike, Megha; Finch, S. W.; Howell, C. R.; Tonchev, A. P.; Tornow, W.

2017-05-01

Photofission cross-section ratios of 235U and 238U have been measured using monoenergetic photon beams at the HIγS facility of TUNL. These measurements have been performed in small energy steps between 9.0 and 16.6 MeV using a dual-fission ionization chamber. Measured cross-section ratios are compared with the previous experimental data as well as with the recent evaluated nuclear data library ENDF.

Report to the 238U discrepancy task force on SIOB fits to the ORNL, CBNM, and JAERI transmission data

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Olsen, D.K.

1984-05-01

The computer code SIOB has been used to obtain least-squares simultaneous-sample shape fits to the recent 238 U transmission data of ORNL, CBNM, and JAERI over the energy regions 1460 to 1820 eV, 2470 to 2740 eV, and 3820 to 4000 eV. The fits indicate that much of the systematic discrepancy in the published neutron widths from these data arose in the data analysis procedure. Except for the 3820- to 4000-eV JAERI data, the systematic differences in the resulting neutron widths from the present widths are larger than those contained in any existing evaluation. These fits were performed as part of the work for the NEANDC ad hoc 238 U Discrepancy Task Force. 20 references

Mass dependence of azimuthal asymmetry in the fission of {sup 232}Th and {sup 233,235,236,238}U by polarized photons

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Denyak, V.V. [National Science Center ' ' Kharkov Institute of Physics and Technology' ' , Kharkiv (Ukraine); Pele Pequeno Principe Research Institute, Curitiba (Brazil); Khvastunov, V.M. [National Science Center ' ' Kharkov Institute of Physics and Technology' ' , Kharkiv (Ukraine); Paschuk, S.A. [Federal University of Technology - Parana, Curitiba (Brazil); Schelin, H.R. [Federal University of Technology - Parana, Curitiba (Brazil); Pele Pequeno Principe Research Institute, Curitiba (Brazil)

2013-04-15

Fission of the even-even nuclei {sup 232}Th, {sup 236,238}U and even-odd nuclei {sup 233,235}U by linearly polarized photons has been studied at excitation energies in the region of a giant dipole resonance. The performed investigations unambiguously showed the existence of the fragment mass dependence of the cross section azimuthal asymmetry in the photofission of {sup 236}U and {sup 238}U. In addition, the obtained results provided the first evidence for the possible difference between the asymmetry values in asymmetric and symmetric mass distribution regions in the case of {sup 236}U. The measured cross section azimuthal asymmetry of the fission of {sup 232}Th does not show any fragment mass dependence. In the even-odd nuclei {sup 233}U and {sup 235}U the difference between the far-asymmetric and other mass distribution regions was also observed but with the statistical uncertainty not small enough for definitive conclusion. (orig.)

Benchmark calculations on resonance absorption by 238U in a PWR pin-cell geometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kruijf, W.J.M. de; Janssen, A.J.

1993-12-01

Very accurate Monte Carlo calculations with MCNP have been performed to serve as a reference for benchmark calculations on resonance absorption by 238 U in a typical PWR pin-cell geometry. Calculations with the energy-pointwise slowing down code ROLAIDS-CPM show that this code calculates the resonance absorption accurately. Calculations with the multigroup discrete ordinates code XSDRN show that accurate results can only be achieved with a very fine energy mesh. (orig.)

Distinct 238U/235U ratios and REE patterns in plutonic and volcanic angrites: Geochronologic implications and evidence for U isotope fractionation during magmatic processes

Science.gov (United States)

Tissot, François L. H.; Dauphas, Nicolas; Grove, Timothy L.

2017-09-01

Angrites are differentiated meteorites that formed between 4 and 11 Myr after Solar System formation, when several short-lived nuclides (e.g., 26Al-26Mg, 53Mn-53Cr, 182Hf-182W) were still alive. As such, angrites are prime anchors to tie the relative chronology inferred from these short-lived radionuclides to the absolute Pb-Pb clock. The discovery of variable U isotopic composition (at the sub-permil level) calls for a revision of Pb-Pb ages calculated using an ;assumed; constant 238U/235U ratio (i.e., Pb-Pb ages published before 2009-2010). In this paper, we report high-precision U isotope measurement for six angrite samples (NWA 4590, NWA 4801, NWA 6291, Angra dos Reis, D'Orbigny, and Sahara 99555) using multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass-spectrometry and the IRMM-3636 U double-spike. The age corrections range from -0.17 to -1.20 Myr depending on the samples. After correction, concordance between the revised Pb-Pb and Hf-W and Mn-Cr ages of plutonic and quenched angrites is good, and the initial (53Mn/55Mn)0 ratio in the Early Solar System (ESS) is recalculated as being (7 ± 1) × 10-6 at the formation of the Solar System (the error bar incorporates uncertainty in the absolute age of Calcium, Aluminum-rich inclusions - CAIs). An uncertainty remains as to whether the Al-Mg and Pb-Pb systems agree in large part due to uncertainties in the Pb-Pb age of CAIs. A systematic difference is found in the U isotopic compositions of quenched and plutonic angrites of +0.17‰. A difference is also found between the rare earth element (REE) patterns of these two angrite subgroups. The δ238U values are consistent with fractionation during magmatic evolution of the angrite parent melt. Stable U isotope fractionation due to a change in the coordination environment of U during incorporation into pyroxene could be responsible for such a fractionation. In this context, Pb-Pb ages derived from pyroxenes fraction should be corrected using the U isotope composition

Analysis of plutonium isotope ratios including 238Pu/239Pu in individual U-Pu mixed oxide particles by means of a combination of alpha spectrometry and ICP-MS.

Science.gov (United States)

Esaka, Fumitaka; Yasuda, Kenichiro; Suzuki, Daisuke; Miyamoto, Yutaka; Magara, Masaaki

2017-04-01

Isotope ratio analysis of individual uranium-plutonium (U-Pu) mixed oxide particles contained within environmental samples taken from nuclear facilities is proving to be increasingly important in the field of nuclear safeguards. However, isobaric interferences, such as 238 U with 238 Pu and 241 Am with 241 Pu, make it difficult to determine plutonium isotope ratios in mass spectrometric measurements. In the present study, the isotope ratios of 238 Pu/ 239 Pu, 240 Pu/ 239 Pu, 241 Pu/ 239 Pu, and 242 Pu/ 239 Pu were measured for individual Pu and U-Pu mixed oxide particles by a combination of alpha spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). As a consequence, we were able to determine the 240 Pu/ 239 Pu, 241 Pu/ 239 Pu, and 242 Pu/ 239 Pu isotope ratios with ICP-MS after particle dissolution and chemical separation of plutonium with UTEVA resins. Furthermore, 238 Pu/ 239 Pu isotope ratios were able to be calculated by using both the 238 Pu/( 239 Pu+ 240 Pu) activity ratios that had been measured through alpha spectrometry and the 240 Pu/ 239 Pu isotope ratios determined through ICP-MS. Therefore, the combined use of alpha spectrometry and ICP-MS is useful in determining plutonium isotope ratios, including 238 Pu/ 239 Pu, in individual U-Pu mixed oxide particles. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Transfer of {sup 238}U, {sup 230}Th, {sup 226}Ra, and {sup 210}Pb from soils to tree and shrub species in a Mediterranean area

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Blanco Rodriguez, P. [Natural Radioactivity Group, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Extremadura, Avda. de Elvas s/n, 06071 Badajoz (Spain); Vera Tome, F. [Natural Radioactivity Group, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Extremadura, Avda. de Elvas s/n, 06071 Badajoz (Spain)], E-mail: fvt@unex.es; Lozano, J.C. [Natural Radioactivity Group, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Extremadura, Avda. de Elvas s/n, 06071 Badajoz (Spain); Laboratorio de Radiaciones Ionizantes, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Salamanca, 37008 Salamanca (Spain); Perez Fernandez, M.A. [Natural Radioactivity Group, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Extremadura, Avda. de Elvas s/n, 06071 Badajoz (Spain); Area de Ecologia, Universidad Pablo Olavide, Carretera de Utrera km. 1, 41013 Sevilla (Spain)

2010-06-15

The soil-to-plant transfer factors of natural uranium isotopes ({sup 238}U and {sup 234}U), {sup 230}Th, {sup 226}Ra, and {sup 210}Pb were studied in a disused uranium mine located in the Extremadura region in the south-west of Spain. The plant samples included trees (Quercus ilex, Quercus suber, and Eucalyptus cameldulensis) and one shrub (Cytisus multiflorus). All of them are characteristic of Mediterranean environments. The activity concentrations in leaves and fruit were determined for the tree species at different stages of growth. For the shrub, the total above-ground fraction was considered in three seasons. For old leaves and fruit, the highest activity concentrations were found in Eucalyptus cameldulensis for all the radionuclides studied, except in the case of {sup 230}Th that presented similar activity concentrations in all of the tree species studied. In every case, the transfer to fruit was less than the transfer to leaves. In the shrub, the results depended on the season of sampling, with the highest value obtained in spring and the lowest in autumn. Important correlations were obtained for {sup 238}U and {sup 226}Ra between the activity ratio in soils with that in leaves or fruit.

Natural activities of 40K, 238U and 232Th in elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum) in Ibadan metropolis, Nigeria

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jibiri, N.N.; Ajao, A.O.

2004-01-01

Samples of elephant grass collected at some pasturing farmlands across different locations in Ibadan metropolis were analyzed for their natural radioactivity concentrations due to 40 K, 238 U and 232 Th radionuclides. Radioactivity measurements were carried out using γ-ray spectroscopy. The average radioactivity concentration of 40 K was found to be 64.5±8.1 Bq kg -1 , 25.7±5.5 Bq kg -1 for 238 U and 33.4±3.9 Bq kg -1 for 232 Th. The radiological health implication to the population that may result from these values is found to be very low and almost insignificant. No artificial radionuclide, however, was detected in any of the samples, hence, measurements have been taken as representing baseline values of these radionuclides in the grass in the metropolis

The fission cross sections of 230Th, 232Th, 233U, 234U, 236U, 238U, 237Np, 239Pu and 242Pu relative 235U at 14.74 MeV neutron energy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Meadows, J.W.

1986-12-01

The measurement of the fission cross section ratios of nine isotopes relative to 235 U at an average neutron energy of 14.74 MeV is described with particular attention to the determination of corrections and to sources of error. The results are compared to ENDF/B-V and to other measurements of the past decade. The ratio of the neutron induced fission cross section for these isotopes to the fission cross section for 235 U are: 230 Th - 0.290 +- 1.9%; 232 Th - 0.191 +- 1.9%; 233 U - 1.132 +- 0.7%; 234 U - 0.998 +- 1.0%; 236 U - 0.791 +- 1.1%; 238 U - 0.587 +- 1.1%; 237 Np - 1.060 +- 1.4%; 239 Pu - 1.152 +- 1.1%; 242 Pu - 0.967 +- 1.0%. 40 refs., 11 tabs., 9 figs

Angular distribution of photofission fragments in 238U at 5.43 MeV

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kuniyoshi, S.; Mafra, O.Y.; Renner, C.; Goldemberg, J.

1974-01-01

The angular distribution of photofission fragments of 238 U, produced by 5.43 MeV monochromatic photons from the eta,γ reaction in sulphur, has been measured using glass plates as detectors. In the analysis of the results only the contributions from the (J sup(π), K) 1= (1 - ,0), (1 - ,1) and (2 + ,0) terms were considered. The coefficients of the angular distributions of the fission fragments were obtained. An analysis of the data available in the literature on the angular distribution near the photofission threshold is also presented

Angular distribution of photofission fragments in 238U at 5.43 MeV

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kuniyoshi, Susumo

1973-01-01

The angular distribution of photofission fragments of 238 U, produced by 5.43 MeV monochromatic photons from the η,γ reaction in sulphur, has been measured using glass plates as detectors. In the analysis of the results only the contributions from the (J π , K) 1= (1 - ,0), (1 - ,1) and (2 + ,0) terms were considered. The coefficients of the angular distributions of the fission fragments were obtained. An analysis of the data available in the literature on the angular distribution near the photofission threshold is also presented. (author)

Element enrichment and U-series isotopic characteristics of the hydrothermal sulfides at Jade site in the Okinawa Trough

Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

无

2009-01-01

The geochemical and U-series isotopic characteristics of hydrothermal sulfide samples from the Jade site (127°04.5′E, 27°15′N, water depth 1300-1450 m) at Jade site in the Okinawa Trough were analyzed. In the hydrothermal sulfide samples bearing sulfate (samples HOK1 and HOK2), the LREEs are relatively enriched. All the hydrothermal sulfide samples except HOK1 belong to Zn-rich hydrothermal sulfide. In comparison with Zn-rich hydrothermal sulfides from other fields, the contents of Zn, Pb, Ag, Cd, Au and Hg are higher, the contents of Fe, Al, Cr, Co, Ni, Sr, Te, Cs, Ti and U lower, and the 210Pb radioactivity ratios and 210Pb/Pb ratios very low. In the hydrothermal sulfide mainly composed of sphalerite, the correlations between rare elements Hf and U, and Hf and Mn as well as that between dispersive elements Ga and Zn, are strongly positive; also the contents of Au and Ag are related to Fe-sulfide, because the low temperature promotes enrichment of Au and Ag. Meanwhile, the positive correlations between Fe and Bi and between Zn and Cd are not affected by the change of mineral assemblage. Based on the 210Pb/Pb ratios of hydrothermal sulfide samples (3.99×10-5-5.42×10?5), their U isotopic composition (238U content 1.15-2.53 ppm, 238U activity 1.07-1.87 dpm/g, 234U activity 1.15-2.09 dpm/g and 234U/238U ratio 1.07-1.14) and their 232Th and 230Th contents are at base level, and the chronological age of hydrothermal sulfide at Jade site in the Okinawa Trough is between 200 and 2000 yr.

Electromagnetic fission of 238U at 600 and 1000 MeV per nucleon

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rubehn, T.; Mueller, W.F.J.; Bassini, R.; Begemann-Blaich, M.; Blaich, T.; Gross, C.; Imme, G.; Iori, I.; Kunde, G.J.; Kunze, W.D.; Lindenstruth, V.; Lynen, U.; Moehlemkamp, T.; Moretto, L.G.; Ocker, B.; Pochodzalla, J.; Raciti, G.; Reito, S.; Sann, H.; Schuettauf, A.; Serfling, V.; Trautmann, W.; Trzcinski, A.; Verde, G.; Woerner, A.; Zude, E.; Zwieglinski, B.

1995-05-01

Electromagnetic fission of 238 U projectiles at E/A=600 and 1000 MeV was studied with the ALADIN spectrometer at the heavy-ion synchrotron SIS. Seven different targets (Be, C, Al, Cu, In, Au and U) were used. By considering only those fission events where the two charges added up to 92, most of the nuclear interactions were excluded. The nuclear contributions to the measured fission cross sections were determined by extrapolating from beryllium to the heavier targets with the concept of factorization. The obtained cross sections for electromagnetic fission are well reproduced by extended Weizsaecker-Williams calculations which include E1 and E2 excitations. The asymmetry of the fission fragments' charge distribution gives evidence for the excitation of the double giant-dipole resonance in uranium. (orig.)

A comparative study of 232Th and 238U activity estimation in soil samples by gamma spectrometry and Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA) technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rekha, A.K.; Anilkumar, S.; Narayani, K.; Babu, D.A.R.

2012-01-01

Radioactivity in the environment is mainly due to the naturally occurring radionuclides like uranium, thorium with their daughter products and potassium. Even though Gamma spectrometry is the most commonly used non destructive method for the quantification of these naturally occurring radionuclides, Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA), a well established analytical technique, can also be used. But the NAA technique is a time consuming process and needs proper standards, proper sample preparation etc. In this paper, the 232 Th and 238 U activity estimated using gamma ray spectrometry and NAA technique are compared. In the case of direct gamma spectrometry method, the samples were analysed after sealing in a 250 ml container. Whereas for the NAA, about 300 mg of each sample, after irradiation were subjected to gamma spectrometry. The 238 U and 232 Th activities (in Bq/kg) in samples were estimated after the proper efficiency correction and were compared. The estimated activities by these two methods are in good agreement. The variation in 238 U and 232 Th activity values are within ± 15% which are acceptable for environmental samples

Comparison of activity concentration of 238U, 232Th and 40K in different Layers of subsurface Structures in Dei-Dei and Kubwa, Abuja, northcentral Nigeria

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Maxwell, Omeje; Wagiran, Husin; Ibrahim, Noorddin; Lee, Siak Kuan; Sabri, Soheil

2013-01-01

The study of activity concentration of 232 Th, 238 U and 40 K of rock samples from site one (S1L1–S1L11, 70 m) and site two (S2L1–S2L9, 60 m) boreholes in Dei-Dei and Kubwa was presented and the first time in the region to be compared. Activity concentrations were analysed using a high resolution co-axial HPGe gamma ray spectrometer system. The activity concentration ranges in site one borehole were from 45±1 to 98±6 Bq kg −1 for 232 Th, from 18±2 to 37±4 Bq kg −1 for 238 U and from 254 ±32 Bq kg −1 to 1195 ±151 Bq kg −1 for 40 K. The activity concentration ranges in site two borehole were from 32±3 to 84±7 Bq kg −1 for 232 Th, from 15±2 to 52±5 Bq kg −1 for 238 U and from 119±15 to 705±94 for 40 K Bq kg −1 . Significantly higher concentration of 232 Th and 238 U occurs in samples collected from S1L7, S1L11 and S2L1 layers. These zones experienced granitic intrusions produced by denudation and tectonism. 40 K in rock samples of S1L4 and S2L4 activity concentrations is close; it could be that biotite granitic intrusion that is inferred as the formation in that layer reflects the same activity of potassium in rock's radioactivity measurement. The area requires further investigation of soil geochemistry and activity concentration of radionuclides in groundwater. - Highlights: • Activity concentration of 238 U, 232 Th and 40 K was noted high. • The two boreholes show significant different concentrations of 238 U, 232 Th and 40 K. • The Th/U ratio was high in both, but distinctly higher in first borehole. • 232 Th was increasing with depth in site one almost 100%. • The radiological monitoring on groundwater is recommended

Charge-state distribution measurements of ^{238}U and ^{136}Xe at 11  MeV/nucleon using gas charge stripper

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

H. Kuboki

2010-09-01

Full Text Available The charge-state distributions and equilibrium charge states of uranium (^{238}U and xenon (^{136}Xe ions at 11  MeV/nucleon were determined using a gas charge stripper. A differential pumping system facilitated the increase of the nitrogen gas thickness up to 1.3  mg/cm^{2}, which is sufficient for the most probable charge state to attain equilibrium. The charge states of ^{238}U attain equilibrium at 56.0, 56.6, and 55.7 in N_{2}, Ar, and CO_{2} media with thicknesses of 125, 79, and 126  μg/cm^{2}, respectively, while those of ^{136}Xe attain equilibrium at 40.5, 40.1, and 40.3 in N_{2}, Ar, and CO_{2} media with thicknesses of 163, 95, and 139  μg/cm^{2}, respectively. The equilibrium charge states of ^{136}Xe are acceptable for acceleration by the subsequent cyclotron. The measured data of ^{238}U were used to devise an empirical formula for the prediction of the equilibrium charge state in gaseous media over the energy region of 0.01–60  MeV/nucleon. The equilibrium charge state of ^{136}Xe as predicted by the devised formula is in good agreement with the data.

Activity concentrations of {sup 238}U and {sup 226}Ra in scales formed on pipes of industrial boilers in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Poggi, Claudia M.B.; Farias, Emerson E.G. de, E-mail: claudiapoggi04@gmail.com, E-mail: emersonemiliano@yahoo.com.br [Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), Recife, PE (Brazil). Departamento de Energia Nuclear; Franca, Elvis J.; Hazin, Clovis A., E-mail: chazin@cnen.gov.br [Centro Regional de Ciencias Nucleares do Nordeste (CRCN-NE/CNEN-PE), Recife, PE (Brazil); Gazineu, Maria H.P., E-mail: helena@unicap.br [Universidade Catolica de Pernambuco (UNICAP), Recife, PE (Brazil). Centro de Ciencias e Tecnologia

2015-07-01

The procedures employed in the industry can generate significant amounts of solid, liquid and gaseous wastes that usually contain toxic or materials of difficulty degradation. One of the facts that contribute to the formation of such wastes is the generation of steam used in operating processes and industry segments. Currently, steam supplied by boilers is the most economical and practical mode of heat transfer in industrial processes. Due to the high temperature of water used in these processes, compounds which were previously soluble become insoluble, generating residues called scales. This material, which contains stable ions, can also present naturally occurring radionuclides such as {sup 238}U and {sup 226}Ra, which concentrate over time in piping and equipment surfaces. If not disposed correctly, this material also can contaminate the environment. The main origin of these radionuclides is the use of groundwater in industrial processes. Thus, in regions of naturally enriched in radionuclides such as the Region of Pernambuco, including the municipalities of Paulista and Goiana, there is a greater possibility of radioactive scale formation. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the activity concentrations of {sup 238}U and {sup 226}Ra present in the solid wastes generated by industries situated in Paulista and Goiana, in order to assess radionuclide disequilibrium. For the sake of comparison, scale samples collected from industries located in the municipality of Caruaru, far from the previous municipalities, were also analyzed. The determination of the activity concentrations for {sup 238}U and {sup 226}Ra was performed by High Resolution Gamma-Ray Spectrometry. Samples were collected, prepared, packed in plastic containers and set aside for a minimum time of 21 days, for the secular equilibrium to occur between {sup 226}Ra and its short lived descendants. The counting time was 80,000 seconds. Gamma energies used for determination of activity concentrations

Effect translational invariance in low-lying electric dipole excitations in 236U and 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ertugral, F.

2005-01-01

In this paper the translational invariant QRPA approach suggested by Pyatov [1] for the spherical nuclei has been extended to describe the 1 - states in deformed nuclei. The role of spurious centre-of-motion state on the Pygmy dipole resonance (PDR) has been investigated in the deformed 236 U and 238 U nuclei. It has been shown that the effect of taking into account the translational invariance of the Hamiltonians in the QRPA with separation of zero energy spurious solutions are noticeable in both the low energy density of 1 - states and in the PDR. Present investigation demonstrates the advantage of the translational invariant QRPA over the non translational invariant one. Within the translational invariant model the effect of removing spurious states on the E1 strength distribution is stronger than in none invariant QRPA (∼20%) for the states up to the neutron binding energy. It is found that the spurious state is spread over many levels, the largest admixture being situated in the region of the energy spacing between nuclear shells o w h . The giant resonance states contain, as a rule, very small admixtures of the spurious state

Determination of Pb-210 and U-238 in environment samples by direct measurement using low energy γ spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Godoy, J.M. de; Mendonca, A.H.; Sachett, I.A.

1985-01-01

The determination of Pb-210 and U-238 by γ spectrometry in environmental samples was carried out using the 47 KeV (4%) line for Pb-210 and the 63 KeV (3,9%) line from Th-234 to U-238. An intrinsic Ge detector with 0,8 KeV resolution for the 60 KeV line of Am-41 was employed. The eficiency was determined by using the radionuclide water solution. The samples were measured in a cylindric geometry with 7 cm diameter and 3 cm hight with a mass ranging from 25 to 180g, depending on the density. The self absorption correction factor for each sample was determined by using an external source of Pb-210 and Am-241. The results showed good agreement with the radiochemical analysis values. The diferences were lower than 20%; the detection limit changed from sample to sample staying on the pCi/g range for the 200 minutes couting time. (Author) [pt

Concentrations and biological availability of 238U and 230Th in the environs of a uranium milling operation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ibrahim, S.; Flot, S.; Whicker, F.W.

1982-01-01

This paper reports on a study whose objectives were to determine 238 U and 230 Th concentrations in soil and native plants from various sites around a conventional acid leach uranium milling operation in the Western US, and to estimate plant/soil concentration factors. Soil and vegetation samples were collected from exposed, weathered tailings; near the edge of a tailings pond; from a reclamation area; and at several native range background (control) locations. The results indicate that mean plant/soil concentration factors varied significantly among sites and between radionuclides, but no significant differences between plant groups were found. Concentration factors for 230 Th were greater than for 238 U for plants growing at the edge of the tailings pond. It is speculated that the lower concentration factors for uranium relative to thorium at this site may be due to the proportion of their contents in soil that is biologically available for plant uptake

Transfer of {sup 40}K, {sup 238}U, {sup 210}Pb, and {sup 210}Po from soil to plant in various locations in south of Syria

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Al-Masri, M.S. [Atomic Energy Commission of Syria, Damascus, P.O. Box 6091 (Syrian Arab Republic)], E-mail: scientific1@aec.org.sy; Al-Akel, B.; Nashawani, A.; Amin, Y.; Khalifa, K.H.; Al-Ain, F. [Atomic Energy Commission of Syria, Damascus, P.O. Box 6091 (Syrian Arab Republic)

2008-02-15

Transfer factors of {sup 40}K, {sup 238}U, {sup 210}Pb, and {sup 210}Po from soil to some agriculture crops in various locations in south of Syria (Dara'a and Assuwaydaa districts) have been determined. Soil and vegetable crops (green pepper, cucumber, tomato, and eggplant), legumes crops (lentil, chickpea, and broad bean), fruit trees (apple, grape, and olives) and cereals (barley and wheat) were collected and analyzed for {sup 238}U, {sup 210}Pb, and {sup 210}Po. The results have shown that higher transfer factors (calculated as Bq kg{sup -1} dry wt. plant material per Bq kg{sup -1} dry wt. soil) for {sup 210}Po, {sup 210}Pb and {sup 238}U were observed in vegetable leaves than fruits and cereals leaves; the highest values of transfer factor (TF) for {sup 238}U were found to be 0.1 for straw of chickpea. Transfer factors for {sup 210}Po varied between 2.8 x 10{sup -2} and 2 in fruits of eggplant and grain of barley, respectively. In addition, several parameters affecting transfer factors of the radionuclides were evaluated. The results can be considered as base values for TF of natural radionuclides in the region.

Photo-fission Product Yield Measurements at Eγ=13 MeV on 235U, 238U, and 239Pu

Science.gov (United States)

Tornow, W.; Bhike, M.; Finch, S. W.; Krishichayan, Fnu; Tonchev, A. P.

2016-09-01

We have measured Fission Product Yields (FPYs) in photo-fission of 235U, 238U, and 239Pu at TUNL's High-Intensity Gamma-ray Source (HI γS) using mono-energetic photons of Eγ = 13 MeV. Details of the experimental setup and analysis procedures will be discussed. Yields for approximately 20 fission products were determined. They are compared to neutron-induced FPYs of the same actinides at the equivalent excitation energies of the compound nuclear systems. In the future photo-fission data will be taken at Eγ = 8 . 0 and 10.5 MeV to find out whether photo-fission exhibits the same so far unexplained dependence of certain FPYs on the energy of the incident probe, as recently observed in neutron-induced fission, for example, for the important fission product 147Nd. Work supported by the U. S. Dept. of Energy, under Grant No. DE-FG02-97ER41033, and by the NNSA, Stewardship Science Academic Alliances Program, Grant No. DE-NA0001838 and the Lawrence Livermore, National Security, LLC under Contract No. DE-AC52-07NA27344.

Isotopic separation of 235U and 238U in an atomic beam with selective two-step photo-ionisation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Boehm, H.D.V.

1977-01-01

The present work gives a report on investigations on isotope separation of 235 U and 238 U by means of selective two-stage photo-ionization on atomic uranium. An atomic beam of sufficient particle density was produced by dissociation of URe 2 in an electron beam heated tungsten furnace at a temperature of 2.500 k. A continuously operated rhodamin-69 dye laser with a maximum output of 120 mW and about 50 mHz band width in one-made operation was used for selective excitation from the ground state. From this state of excitation, ionization resulted achieving a light power of 1.8 W below 3030 A in the reaction volume. The measured separation factors show that the laser method enables the enrichment of uranium to the required valve of three or more percent 235 U for light water reactors in a single separation step. The hyperfine structure could be considerably better resolved compared to earlier investigations, so that it was possible for the first time to identify and measure hitherto unobserved weak components. (orig.) [de

Options for the deduction of target and intervention values for radon precursors of the 238U- and 232Th-series in soils

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Stoop, P.; Lembrechts, J.

1993-04-01

Radiation protection policy in the Netherlands applies to human activities in which ionizing radiation presents a hazard, not to naturally occurring sources of radiation. The risk levels (maximum permissible risk and negligible risk) apply to sources of radiation that cause an additional risk. Translation of these levels into practical environmental quality objectives therefore implies that both the extent and the origin of the risk are determined. The distinction between the natural and the additional radiation dose is of particular interest. In this report various possibilities are described for measuring, explaining and predicting the naturally occurring concentrations of the precursors of the element radon in the two radioactive decay series starting with 238 U and 232 Th. Several methods are given that may be used to derive environmental quality objectives for the soil with respect to these radionuclides. These environmental quality objectives are an important basis for among other things the soil sanitation policy. The nature of the radionuclides considered may have consequences for the choice of sanitation techniques. Because possible sources and cases of soil pollution may have important consequences for the Dutch policy on soil sanitation, a short overview is given of data published on these subjects. The foundation and the control of intervention levels requires insight in the relative importance of pollution pathways. As a result, pathways have been given ample attention. 9 figs., 17 tabs., 66 refs

Study of deep inelastic collisions in the heavy-ion interaction of (14.0MeV/u)208Pb+238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Baluch, J.J.; Khan, E.U.; Tahseen, R.; Qureshi, I.E.; Nasir, Tabassum; Hassan, Najam ul

2006-01-01

Using mica as a passive detector and employing the 2π-geometry technique (14.0MeV/u) 208 Pb+ 238 U heavy-ion nuclear interaction has been studied. The particle tracks were converted into their actual lengths and polar angles through simple geometry. The elastic binary events so bifurcated were used to deduce the coefficients to analyze the three prong events. The relative velocities of the correlated fission fragments were calculated at the second stage of the reaction in order to construct the intermediate stage of the reaction, and hence, determine the pre-fission masses integrated over all angles and energies. The angular distribution of fission fragments within the reaction plane provided the information about the speed of the reaction and proximity effect

Coulex fission of 234U, 235U, 237Np, and 238Np studied within the SOFIA experimental program

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Martin, Julie-Fiona

2014-01-01

SOFIA (Studies On FIssion with Aladin) is an experimental project which aims at systematically measuring the fission fragments' isotopic yields as well as their total kinetic energy, for a wide variety of fissioning nuclei. The PhD work presented in this dissertation takes part in the SOFIA project, and covers the fission of nuclei in the region of the actinides: 234 U, 235 U, 237 Np and 238 Np. The experiment is led at the heavy-ion accelerator GSI in Darmstadt, Germany. This facility provides intense relativistic primary beam of 238 U. A fragmentation reaction of the primary beam permits to create a secondary beam of radioactive ions, some of which the fission is studied. The ions of the secondary beam are sorted and identified through the FR-S (Fragment Separator), a high resolution recoil spectrometer which is tuned to select the ions of interest.The selected - fissile - ions then fly further to Cave-C, an experimental area where the fission experiment itself takes place. At the entrance of the cave, the secondary beam is excited by Coulomb interaction when flying through an target; the de-excitation process involves low-energy fission. Both fission fragments fly forward in the laboratory frame, due to the relativistic boost inferred from the fissioning nucleus.A complete recoil spectrometer has been designed and built by the SOFIA collaboration in the path of the fission fragments, around the existing ALADIN magnet. The identification of the fragments is performed by means of energy loss, time of flight and deviation in the magnet measurements. Both fission fragments are fully (in mass and charge) and simultaneously identified.This document reports on the analysis performed for (1) the identification of the fissioning system, (2) the identification of both fission fragments, on an event-by-event basis, and (3) the extraction of fission observables: yields, TKE, total prompt neutron multiplicity. These results, concerning the actinides, are discussed, and

Evaluation of the excitation function of the 238U(n,2n)237U reaction for neutron energies from threshold to 19 MeV

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kornilov, N.V.; Vinogradov, V.N.; Gay, E.V.; Rabotnov, N.S.; Salnikov, O.A.; Raics, P.; Daroczy, S.; Nagy, S.; Csikai, J.

1983-01-01

Experimental results for the 238 U(n,2n) reaction were collected from the literature and evaluated. The normalisation of the measured cross sections was carried out using recent values for the cross sections of standard monitor reactions as well as new nuclear decay data. The evaluated excitation function was then obtained by the Pade-approximation. (Auth.)

235U, 238U, 232Th, 40K and 137Cs activity concentrations in marine sediments along the northern coast of Oman Sea using high-resolution gamma-ray spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zare, Mohammad Reza; Mostajaboddavati, Mojtaba; Kamali, Mahdi; Abdi, Mohammad Reza; Mortazavi, Mohammad Seddigh

2012-01-01

The natural radioactivity levels in sediment samples of the northern coast of Oman Sea, covering the coastal strip from Hormoz canyon to Goatr seaport, as the first time has been determined. The results of measurements will serve as background reference level for Oman Sea coastlines. Sediments from 36 coastal and near shore locations were collected for analysis. Analysis on the collected samples were carried out to determine 235 U, 238 U, 232 Th, 40 K and 137 Cs using two high purity germanium detectors with 38.5% and 55% relative efficiencies. The concentration of 235 U, 238 U, 232 Th, 40 K and 137 Cs in sediment samples ranged between 1.01 and 2.87 Bq/kg, 11.83 and 22.68 Bq/kg, 10.7 and 25.02 Bq/kg, 222.89 and 535.07 Bq/kg and 0.14 and 2.8 Bq/kg, respectively. The radium equivalent activity was well below the defined limit of 370 Bq/kg. The external hazard indices were found to be less than 1, indicating a low dose.

Intake of 238U and 232Th through the consumption of foodstuffs by tribal populations practicing slash and burn agriculture in an extremely high rainfall area

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jha, S.K.; Gothankar, S.; Iongwai, P.S.; Kharbuli, B.; War, S.A.; Puranik, V.D.

2012-01-01

The concentration of naturally occurring radionuclides 232 Th, 238 U was determined using Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA) in different food groups namely cereals, vegetables, leafy vegetables, roots and tubers cultivated and consumed by tribal population residing around the proposed uranium mine. The study area is a part of rural area K. P. Mawthabah (Domiasiat) in the west Khasi Hills District of Meghalaya, India located in the tropical region of high rainfall that remains steeped in tribal tradition without much outside influence. Agriculture by Jhum (slash and burn) cultivation and animal husbandry are the main occupation of the tribal populations. A total of 89 samples from locally grown food products were analyzed. The concentration of 238 U and 232 Th in the soil of the study area was found to vary 1.6–15.5 and 2.0–5.0 times respectively to the average mean value observed in India. The estimated daily dietary intake of 238 U and 232 Th were 2.0 μg d −1 (25 mBq d −1 ) and 3.4 μg d −1 (14 mBq d −1 ) is comparable with reported range 0.5–5.0 μg d −1 and 0.15–3.5 μg d −1 respectively for the Asian population. - Highlights: ► 232 Th, 238 U were determined using Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA). ► Study area located in the tropical region of high rainfall that remains steeped in tribal tradition. ► Agriculture by Jhum (slash and burn) cultivation and animal husbandry are the main occupation of the tribal populations. ► The estimated daily intake of 232 Th and 238 U in high rainfall area was found to be 3.4 and 2.0 μg respectively.

Dynamics of Db isotopes formed in reactions induced by 238U, 248Cm, and 249Bk across the Coulomb barrier

Science.gov (United States)

Kaur, Gurjit; Sandhu, Kirandeep; Kaur, Amandeep; Sharma, Manoj K.

2018-05-01

The dynamical cluster decay model is employed to investigate the decay of *265Db and *267Db nuclei, formed in the 27Al+238U , 18O+249Bk , and 19F+248Cm hot fusion reactions at energies around the Coulomb barrier. First, the fission dynamics of the 27Al+238U reaction is explored by investigating the fragmentation and preformation yield of the reaction. The symmetric mass distribution of the fission fragments is observed for *265Db nucleus, when static β2 i deformations are used within hot optimum orientation approach. However, the mass split gets broaden for the use of β2 i-dynamical hot configuration of the fragments and becomes clearly asymmetric for the cold-static-deformed approach. Within the application of cold orientations of fragments, a new fission channel is observed at mass asymmetry η =0.29 . In addition to 238U-induced reaction, the work is carried out to address the fission and neutron evaporation cross sections of *267Db nucleus formed via 19F+248Cm and 18O+249Bk reactions, besides a comprehensive analysis of fusion and capture processes. Higher fusion cross sections and compound nucleus formation probabilities (PCN) are obtained for the 18O+249Bk reaction, as larger mass asymmetry in the entrance channel leads to reduced Coulomb factor. Finally, the role of sticking (IS) and nonsticking (INS) moments of inertia is analyzed for the 4 n and 5 n channels of *267Db nuclear system.

EFFECTIVE SPECIFIC ACTIVITY OF NATURAL RADIONUCLIDES FOR THE NORM BELONGED TO 238U AND 232TH SERIES BEING IN THE STATE OF DISTURBED RADIOACTIVE EQUILIBRIUM

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

I. P. Stamat

2008-01-01

Full Text Available In the Sanitary Rules SR 2.6.1.1292-03 and SR 2.6.6.1169-02 classification of the industrial waste containing naturally occurring radioactive materials is adopted in accordance to the values of their effective specific activity Aeff. In a case of the disturbed equilibrium in 238U and 232Th series it is necessary to take into consideration actual contribution of the separate natural radionuclides of the mentioned series into the value of gamma dose rate of the waste. This will permit to avoid unjustified overestimating or understating of the waste category which prevents as unjustified expenditures on their treating so undertaking of the necessary measures providing radiation safety.

Short Lived Fission Product Yield Measurements in 235U, 238U and 239Pu

Science.gov (United States)

Silano, Jack; Tonchev, Anton; Tornow, Werner; Krishichayan, Fnu; Finch, Sean; Gooden, Matthew; Wilhelmy, Jerry

2017-09-01

Yields of short lived fission products (FPYs) with half lives of a few minutes to an hour contain a wealth of information about the fission process. Knowledge of short lived FPYs would contribute to existing data on longer lived FPY mass and charge distributions. Of particular interest are the relative yields between the ground states and isomeric states of FPYs since these isomeric ratios can be used to determine the angular momentum of the fragments. Over the past five years, a LLNL-TUNL-LANL collaboration has made precision measurements of FPYs from quasi-monoenergetic neutron induced fission of 235U, 238U and 239Pu. These efforts focused on longer lived FPYs, using a well characterized dual fission chamber and several days of neutron beam exposure. For the first time, this established technique will be applied to measuring short lived FPYs, with half lives of minutes to less than an hour. A feasibility study will be performed using irradiation times of < 1 hour, improving the sensitivity to short lived FPYs by limiting the buildup of long lived isotopes. Results from this exploratory study will be presented, and the implications for isomeric ratio measurements will be discussed. This work was performed under the auspices of US DOE by LLNL under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344.

Photofission cross-section ratio measurement of {sup 235}U/{sup 238}U using monoenergetic photons in the energy range of 9.0–16.6 MeV

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Krishichayan, E-mail: krishi@tunl.duke.edu [Department of Physics, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708 (United States); Triangle Universities Nuclear Laboratory, Durham, NC 27708 (United States); Bhike, Megha; Finch, S.W.; Howell, C.R. [Department of Physics, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708 (United States); Triangle Universities Nuclear Laboratory, Durham, NC 27708 (United States); Tonchev, A.P. [Nuclear and Chemical Sciences Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550 (United States); Tornow, W. [Department of Physics, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708 (United States); Triangle Universities Nuclear Laboratory, Durham, NC 27708 (United States)

2017-05-11

Photofission cross-section ratios of {sup 235}U and {sup 238}U have been measured using monoenergetic photon beams at the HIγS facility of TUNL. These measurements have been performed in small energy steps between 9.0 and 16.6 MeV using a dual-fission ionization chamber. Measured cross-section ratios are compared with the previous experimental data as well as with the recent evaluated nuclear data library ENDF.

Experimental and evaluated data on the discrete level excitation function of the 238U(n,n') reaction

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Simakov, S.P.

1991-01-01

Experimental data on the 238 U excitation function are compiled and analyzed. The experimental data are compared with the evaluated data from the BNAB, ENDF/B-IV and ENDL-78 evaluated data libraries. It is shown that the BNAB evaluated data are in good agreement with the existing experimental data, including new results from recent experiments. (author). 26 refs, 2 figs, 2 tabs

Neutron capture cross section measurement of 238U at the n TOF CERN facility with C6D6 scintillation detectors in the energy region from 1 eV to 700 keV

CERN Document Server

Mingrone, F.

2017-01-01

The aim of this work is to provide a precise and accurate measurement of the 238U(n,g) reaction cross section in the energy region from 1 eV to 700 keV. This reaction is of fundamental importance for the design calculations of nuclear reactors, governing the behaviour of the reactor core. In particular, fast reactors, which are experiencing a growing interest for their ability to burn radioactive waste, operate in the high energy region of the neutron spectrum. In this energy region most recent evaluations disagree due to inconsistencies in the existing measurements of up to 15%. In addition, the assessment of nuclear data uncertainty performed for innovative reactor systems shows that the uncertainty in the radiative capture cross-section of 238U should be further reduced to 1-3% in the energy region from 20 eV to 25 keV. To this purpose, addressed by the Nuclear Energy Agency as a priority nuclear data need, complementary experiments, one at the GELINA and two at the n_TOF facility, were proposed and carrie...

Observation of an isomeric level in 239U by means of the 238U(n,γ)239U reaction

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Thomas, B.W.; Murray, J.; Rae, E.R.

1970-01-01

Low-energy-capture gamma-ray spectra ( 238 U up to a neutron energy of 350 eV. The data were obtained using a 25-cm 3 Ge(Li) detector at the Harwell 45 MeV Electron Linac. Capture events were recorded as functions of gamma-ray energy and neutron time-of-flight, and by suitable analysis of the data time-of-flight spectra have been obtained for individual gamma-rays. The strongest low-energy gamma-ray, at 134 keV, depopulates a level in 239 U at the same energy by an E2-transition to the ground state. The time-of-flight spectrum for this transition indicates that the 134-keV level is isomeric with a half-life of approximately 1 microsecond. This is evident from the long tails on the low-energy side of each resonance, which are not present for other regions of the gamma-ray spectrum. The possibility of using low-energy gamma-rays as a measure of the total capture cross-section is investigated by comparing the time-of-flight spectrum for the 134-keV transition with that for a Moxon-Rae detector under the same experimental conditions. (author)

Angular distributions of target fragments from the reactions of 292 MeV - 25.2 GeV 12C with 197Au and 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Morita, Y.

1983-01-01

The angular distributions of the 197 Au target fragments were all forwardly peaked. Extensively forward peaked angular distributions were observed at the non-relativistic projectile energies (292 MeV, 1.0 GeV). No obvious differences were observed in the angular distributions at the different relativistic projectile energies of 3.0 GeV, 12.0 GeV and 25.2 GeV. The characteristic angular distribution pattern from the relativistic projectile energy experiments was also observed in the non-relativistic energy experiments. Maximum degree of forward-peaking in the angular distributions at each projectile energy was observed at the product mass number (A) around 190 from the 292 MeV projectile energy, at A = 180 from 1.0 GeV and at A =175 from 3.0 GeV and 12.0 GeV. In general, two different types of angular distributions were observed in the relativistic projectile energy experiments with the 238 U target. Isotropic angular distributions were observed for the fission product nuclides. The angular distributions of the fission products at the intermediate (292 MeV) energy showed slightly forward peaked angular distributions. Because of the long projectile-target interaction time in the primary nuclear reaction, larger momentum was transferred from the projectile to the target nucleus. Steep forward-peaked angular distributions were also observed with the 238 U target

Experimental Cross Sections for Reactions of Heavy Ions and 208Pb, 209Bi, 238U, and 248Cm Targets

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Patin, Joshua B.

2002-01-01

The study of the reactions between heavy ions and 208 Pb, 209 Bi, 238 U, and 248 Cm targets was performed to look at the differences between the cross sections of hot and cold fusion reactions. Experimental cross sections were compared with predictions from statistical computer codes to evaluate the effectiveness of the computer code in predicting production cross sections. Hot fusion reactions were studied with the MG system, catcher foil techniques and the Berkeley Gas-filled Separator (BGS). 3n- and 4n-exit channel production cross sections were obtained for the 238 U( 18 O,xn) 256-x Fm, 238 U( 22 Ne,xn) 260-x No, and 248 Cm( 15 N,xn) 263-x Lr reactions and are similar to previous experimental results. The experimental cross sections were accurately modeled by the predictions of the HIVAP code using the Reisdorf and Schaedel parameters and are consistent with the existing systematics of 4n exit channel reaction products. Cold fusion reactions were examined using the BGS. The 208 Pb( 48 Ca,xn) 256-x No, 208 Pb( 50 Ti,xn) 258-x Rf, 208 Pb( 51 V,xn) 259-x Db, 209 Bi( 50 Ti,xn) 259-x Db, and 209 Bi( 51 V,xn) 260-x Sg reactions were studied. The experimental production cross sections are in agreement with the results observed in previous experiments. It was necessary to slightly alter the Reisdorf and Schaedel parameters for use in the HIVAP code in order to more accurately model the experimental data. The cold fusion experimental results are in agreement with current 1n- and 2n-exit channel systematics

Measurement of 238U, 232Th and 40K concentrations in different regions of Colombia

Science.gov (United States)

Rodríguez, W.; Lizarazo, C.; Cortés, M. L.; Rodríguez, S. A.; Mendoza, E. F.; Cristancho, F.

2012-02-01

Taking into account the wide variety of geological structures in Colombia, we took a collection of samples both from sand beaches and high mountains systems and determined their concentration of 238U, 232Th and 40K using a high resolution gamma spectrometry system. The results show a variation of these concentrations for the different samples that we associate with the soil type and the environmental conditions of the chosen regions. We also compare our results with other studies carried out in regions with similar geological conditions.

Comparative studies for determining U-235/U-238 relation in solutions of natural and depleted uranium using gamma spectrometry and neutron activation analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cassorla F, V.; Valle M, L.; Pena V, L.

1988-01-01

Two experimental methods were developed for determining U-235/U-238 ratio in uranium solutions. The isotopic was measured by high resolution ratio gamma-ray spectrometry (G.S.) and neutron activation analysis (N.A.A.). The precision obtained was similar for both methods, but better sensitivity was obtained by N.A.A. The accuracy in both cases was stablished by comparison with samples previously analyzed by mass spectrometry, the results were satisfactory for both techniques. Studies involving the influence of the nitric acid concentration on the isotopic ratio measurement, also were done. In addition, computer programs for faster data reduction were developped, in the case of N.A.A. (author)

Inelastic scattering of 1-2.5 MeV neutrons by 235U and 238U nuclei

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kornilov, N.V.; Kagalenko, A.B.; Baryba, V.Ya.; Balitskij, A.V.; Androsenko, A.A.; Androsenko, P.A.

1993-07-01

The inelastic scattering cross-sections of 1-2.5 MeV neutrons for 235 U and 238 0 nuclei were measured. A detailed description is given of the data processing procedures used, and the methods for determining the neutron flux in the sample. The Monte Carlo method was used to calculate the corrections for multiple neutron scattering and neutron flux attenuation in the sample. Pursuant to an analysis of the fission neutron spectra, we concluded that the systematic error level of the results is ± 3.27%. The results of these cross-section and spectrum measurements for inelastically scattered neutrons are compared with results from other sources and existing evaluations, the possible causes of the divergences for neutrons with an energy level of less than 1 MeV are analysed, and suggestions are put forward for future research work. (author)

Comparison of the BNAB-78 and ENDF/B-V evaluated 238U radiative capture data in the energy range from 0.5 to 15 MeV

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tolstikov, V.A.

1991-01-01

Evaluations of the 238 U capture cross-section as given in the BNAB-78 and ENDF/B-V evaluated data libraries are intercompared and their values compared to recently published data which had not been included in these evaluations. It is concluded that there is a need to re-assess the earlier experimental data, particularly those based on activation measurements, taking secondary neutron reactions and scattering effects into account. It is recommended that a precision measurement of the capture cross-section and its dependence on energy be done in the 1-7 MeV energy range. (author). 18 refs, 1 fig

Determination of radioactivity levels in phosphate-containing fertilizers, copper and gold ores by direct gamma-ray spectroscopy. U-238, Th-232, K-40, and Ra-226 in fertilizers and ores

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Constantinescu, B.; Constantin, F.; Dusoiu, N.; Pascovoici, G.

1996-01-01

Two particular sources from the natural radiation background which may be encountered in Romanian industry are here presented: the phosphate containing fertilizers and the gold and copper ores, respectively. U-238, Th-232, K-40, and Ra-226 activity levels for several imported phosphorites, superphosphates and also for concentrated Cu and Au indigenous ores are reported. A simple and efficient radioactivity determination procedure based on a large volume NaI(Tl) detector, coupled to a Romanian design portable multichannel analyzer is described. Potential radiological impacts for the specialized workers are also discussed. (author) 1 fig., 4 tabs. 6 refs

Cluster decay channel in 238U + 40Ar (243 MeV)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pyatkov, Yu.V.; Penionzhkevich, Yu.Eh.; Osetrov, O.I.

1999-01-01

The reaction 238 U + 40 Ar (E lab = 243 MeV) was studied. For the first time a pronounced fine structure (FS) in the form of distinct peaks has been observed in the mass yields of the fragments of the 278 110 nuclear system decay at the initial excitation of about 60 MeV. The FS peaks are located in the vicinity of the mass numbers A ∼ 70, 100, 130, which are specific for magic nuclei (clusters) of Ni, Ge, Zr, Sn, Sr. The FS peaks contain only low-energy events linked with the very elongated prescission configurations of the system. Some events are observed which can be treated as an indication of ternary fission via such configurations with the appearance of two equal clusters. Hence presumably the collinear cluster tripartition channel is realized observed earlier in the spontaneous fission of 248 Cm and 252 Cf nuclei

Possible evidence for shape isomeric γ-decay in μ- atoms of 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fromm, W.D.; Ortlepp, H.-G.; Polikanov, S.M.; Schmidt, U.; Zorin, G.N.; Arlt, R.; Musiol, G.

1977-01-01

A search for the γ-decay of the shape isomer in muonic 238 U excited by radiationless transitions has been performed. Seven delayed transitions in the energy region of 700 to 3200 keV have been observed with a large Ge(Li) detector. Two transitions with Esub(γ)=2215 and 3131 keV have been attributed to the decay of the shape isomeric state into levels in the first well. The isomeric shift of the second minimum Esub(II) approximately 600 keV in the presence of the muon and the decrease of the lifetime of the shape isomer to tau=12+-2 ns give arguments in favour of the connection of shape isomerism with large quadrupole deformations. (Auth.)

Surrogate measurement of the 238Pu(n,f) cross section

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ressler, J. J.; Burke, J. T.; Escher, J. E.; Bernstein, L. A.; Bleuel, D. L.; Casperson, R. J.; Gostic, J.; Henderson, R.; Scielzo, N. D.; Thompson, I. J.; Wiedeking, M.; Angell, C. T.; Goldblum, B. L.; Munson, J.; Basunia, M. S.; Phair, L. W.; Beausang, C. W.; Hughes, R. O.; Hatarik, R.; Ross, T. J.

2011-01-01

The neutron-induced fission cross section of 238 Pu was determined using the surrogate ratio method. The (n,f) cross section over an equivalent neutron energy range 5-20 MeV was deduced from inelastic α-induced fission reactions on 239 Pu, with 235 U(α,α ' f) and 236 U(α,α ' f) used as references. These reference reactions reflect 234 U(n,f) and 235 U(n,f) yields, respectively. The deduced 238 Pu(n,f) cross section agrees well with standard data libraries up to ∼10 MeV, although larger values are seen at higher energies. The difference at higher energies is less than 20%.

Fission-residues produced in the spallation reaction 238U + p at 1 A GeV

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bernas, M.; Armbruster, P.; Benlliure, J.; Boudard, A.; Casarejos, E.; Czajkowski, S.; Enqvist, T.; Legrain, R.; Leray, S.; Mustapha, B.; Napolitani, P.; Pereira, J.; Rejmund, F.; Ricciardi, M.V.; Schmidt, K.H.; Stephan, C.; Taieb, J.; Tassan-Got, L.; Volant, C.

2003-04-01

Fission fragments from 1 A GeV 238 U projectiles irradiating a hydrogen target were investigated by using the fragment separator FRS for magnetic selection of reaction products including ray-tracing and ΔE-ToF techniques. The momentum spectra of identified fragments were analysed to provide isotopic production cross sections, fission-fragment velocities and recoil momenta of the fissioning parent nuclei. Besides their general relevance, these quantities are also demanded for applications. Calculations and simulations with codes commonly used and recently developed or improved are compared to the data. (orig.)

Inelastic neutron excitation of the ground state rotational band of 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Guenther, P.; Smith, A.

1975-01-01

Cross sections for the neutron excitation of the 2+(45 keV), 4+(148 keV) and 6+(308 keV) states in 238 U were measured to incident energies of approximately 3.0 MeV. The experimental resolution was sufficient to resolve these components throughout the measured energy range. Particular attention was given to energies near threshold and in the few MeV range where direct reaction contributions were appreciable. The experimental results were compared with theoretical estimates based upon statistical and coupled-channel models deduced from comprehensive studies of neutron scattering from heavy-rotational-deformed nuclei. An evaluated inelastic scattering data set was derived from the present experimental and calculational results and previously reported experimental values and compared with respective values from the ENDF-IV file. 4 figures

Study of deep inelastic collisions in the heavy-ion interaction of (14.0MeV/u){sup 208}Pb+{sup 238}U

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Baluch, J J [Department of Physics, Gomal University, D. I. Khan (Pakistan); Khan, E U [Physics Research Division, Pakistan Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology, Islamabad (Pakistan); Tahseen, R [Department of Physics, Gomal University, D. I. Khan (Pakistan); Qureshi, I E [Physics Research Division, Pakistan Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology, Islamabad (Pakistan); Nasir, Tabassum [Department of Physics, Gomal University, D. I. Khan (Pakistan); Hassan, Najam ul [Department of Physics, Gomal University, D. I. Khan (Pakistan)

2006-02-15

Using mica as a passive detector and employing the 2{pi}-geometry technique (14.0MeV/u) {sup 208}Pb+{sup 238}U heavy-ion nuclear interaction has been studied. The particle tracks were converted into their actual lengths and polar angles through simple geometry. The elastic binary events so bifurcated were used to deduce the coefficients to analyze the three prong events. The relative velocities of the correlated fission fragments were calculated at the second stage of the reaction in order to construct the intermediate stage of the reaction, and hence, determine the pre-fission masses integrated over all angles and energies. The angular distribution of fission fragments within the reaction plane provided the information about the speed of the reaction and proximity effect.

Measurement of {sup 238}Np fission cross-section by neutrons near thermal point (preliminary results)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Abramo; vich, S.N.; Andreev, M.F.; Bol`shakov, Y.M. [Institute of Experimental Physics, Arzamas (Russian Federation)] [and others

1995-10-01

Measurements have been carried out of {sup 238}Np fission cross-section by thermal neutrons. The isotope {sup 238}Np was built up through the reaction {sup 238}U(p,n) on an electrostatic accelerator. Extraction and cleaning of the sample were done by ion-exchange chromatography. Fast neutrons were generated on the electrostatic accelerator through the reaction {sup 9}Be(d,n); a polyethylene block was used to slow down neutrons. Registration of fission fragments was performed with dielectric track detectors. Suggesting that the behavior of {sup 238}Np and {sup 238}U. Westscott`s factors are indentical the fission cross-section of {sup 238}Np was obtained: {sigma}{sub fo}=2110 {plus_minus} 75 barn.

Application of Energy Window Concept in Doppler Broadening of {sup 238}U Cross Section

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Khassnov, Azamat; Choi, Soo Young; Lee, Deok Jung [Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Ulsan (Korea, Republic of)

2014-10-15

Currently, the NJOY code is used for construction and Doppler broadening of microscopic cross sections. There exist several methods or formalisms to produce microscopic cross sections and there are also different methods of Doppler broadening. In this paper, Multi-Level Breit-Wigner (MLBW) formalism and the Psi method are used for generation and Doppler broadening of the resonance cross section. Accuracy of the energy window concept applied MLBW (EW MLBW) Doppler broadened cross section was compared with that of the cross section generated by conventional MLBW (Con MLBW) formalism for {sup 2}38U isotope using MATLAB. The conventional method requires Doppler broadening of all resonances, including resonances far from the target energy point, which do not change much with respect to the temperature change. The energy window concept makes Doppler broadening possible with a smaller number of resonances neighboring to the energy point we are interested in, and just adds up 0 K temperature cross sections of other resonances. Multi-level Breit-Wigner formalism and the Doppler broadening method were used to construct microscopic cross sections of {sup 238}U at different temperatures. The energy window concept was applied only for the 1st resonance energy region (4.5∼11.2 eV). The energy window concept demonstrates high competitiveness because the relative differences were less than 0.0016% for all types of cross sections. The advantage of the energy window concept is that the number of resonances broadened for every energy point is significantly reduced, which allows a reduction of computation time by almost 45 % of Doppler broadening time of the cross section generation at temperatures higher than 0 K.

Ingestion dose from 238U, 232Th, 226Ra, 40K and 137CS in cereals, pulses and drinking water to adult population in a high background radiation area, Odisha (India)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lenka, P.; Sahoo, S. K.; Mohapatra, S.; Patra, A. C.; Dubey, J. S.; Vidyasagar, D.; Tripathi, R. M.; Puranik, V. D.

2013-01-01

A natural high background radiation area is located in Chhatrapur, Odisha in the eastern part of India. The inhabitants of this area are exposed to external radiation levels higher than the global average background values, due to the presence of uranium, thorium and its decay products in the monazite sands bearing placer deposits in its beaches. The concentrations of 232 Th, 238 U, 226 Ra, 40 K and 137 Cs were determined in cereals (rice and wheat), pulses and drinking water consumed by the population residing around this region and the corresponding annual ingestion dose was calculated. The annual ingestion doses from cereals, pulses and drinking water varied in the range of 109.4-936.8, 10.2-307.5 and 0.5-2.8 μSv y -1 , respectively. The estimated total annual average effective dose due to the ingestion of these radionuclides in cereals, pulses and drinking water was 530 μSv y -1 . The ingestion dose from cereals was the highest mainly due to a high consumption rate. The highest contribution of dose was found to be from 226 Ra for cereals and drinking water and 40 K was the major dose contributor from the intake of pulses. The contribution of man-made radionuclide 137 Cs to the total dose was found to be minimum. 226 Ra was found to be the largest contributor to ingestion dose from all sources. (authors)

Estimation of internal radiation dose to the adult Asian population from the dietary intakes of two long-lived radionuclides

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Iyengar, G.V.; Kawamura, H.; Dang, H.S.; Parr, R.M.; Wang, J.W.; Akhter, Perveen; Cho, S.Y.; Natera, E.; Miah, F.K.; Nguyen, M.S.

2004-01-01

Daily dietary intakes of two naturally occurring long-lived radionuclides, 232 Th and 238 U, were estimated for the adult population living in a number of Asian countries, using highly sensitive analytical methods such as instrumental and radiochemical neutron activation analysis (INAA and RNAA), and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The Asian countries that participated in the study were Bangladesh (BGD), China (CPR), India (IND), Japan (JPN), Pakistan (PAK), Philippines (PHI), Republic of Korea (ROK) and Vietnam (VIE). Altogether, these countries represent more than 50% of the world population. The median daily intakes of 232 Th ranged between 0.6 and 14.4 mBq, the lowest being for Philippines and the highest for Bangladesh, and daily intakes of 238 U ranged between 6.7 and 62.5 mBq, lowest and the highest being for India and China, respectively. The Asian median intakes were obtained as 4.2 mBq for 232 Th and 12.7 mBq for 238 U. Although the Asian intakes were lower than intakes of 12.3 mBq (3.0 μg) 232 Th and 23.6 mBq (1.9 μg) 238 U proposed by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) for the ICRP Reference Man, they were comparable to the global intake values of 4.6 mBq 232 Th and 15.6 mBq 238 U proposed by the United Nation Scientific Commission on Effects of Radiation (UNSCEAR). The annual committed effective doses to Asian population from the dietary intake of 232 Th and 238 U were calculated to be 0.34 and 0.20 μSv, respectively, which are three orders of magnitude lower than the global average annual radiation dose of 2400 μSv to man from the natural radiation sources as proposed by UNSCEAR

Anisotropy in angular distributions of 238U fission fragments by photons, produced in high energy electron interaction with Si monocrystal

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kasilov, V.I.; Lapin, N.N.

1981-01-01

An enhancement is detected under the angle of 90 deg in the fission fragment yield from 238 U nuclei produced by photons emitted by high-energy electrons passing through a silicon monocrystal. The results enable one to select the most optimal conditions to obtain maximal yields of nuclear particles [ru

The influence of the nature of soil and plant and pollution on the 238U, 232Th, 222Rn and 220Rn concentrations in various natural honey samples using nuclear track detectors: impact on the adult consumers

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Misdaq, M.A.; Mortassim, A.

2009-01-01

238 U and 232 Th concentrations as well as 222 Rn and 220 Rn α-activities per unit volume were measured in various natural honey samples collected from different regions in Morocco using CR-39 and LR-115 type II solid state nuclear track detectors (SSNTDs). These radionuclides were also measured in soils, plant flowers and nectar solutions corresponding to the honey samples studied. In addition, these radionuclides were measured in different imported honey samples. The measured 238 U, 232 Th, 222 Rn and 220 Rn concentrations ranged from (1.5 ± 0.1) mBq kg -1 to (10.6 ± 0.6) mBq kg -1 , (1.1 ± 0.1) mBq kg -1 to (4.2 ± 0.2) mBq kg -1 , (1.5 ± 0.1) Bq kg -1 to (10.6 ± 0.6) Bq kg -1 and (1.1 ± 0.1) Bq kg -1 to (4.2 ± 0.2) Bq kg -1 for the honey samples studied, respectively. Annual 238 U, 232 Th and 222 Rn intakes by Moroccan adults from the consumption of honey were assessed. The influence of the nature of soil and plant on the 238 U and 232 Th contents of the studied honey samples was investigated. These measurements were completed by an investigation of the 238 U and 232 Th transfer between soils and plant flowers and that between plant flowers and honey, and also by the investigation of the influence of pollution due to different material dusts on 238 U, 232 Th and 222 Rn in the honey samples studied. Committed equivalent doses due to the annual intake of 238 U, 232 Th and 222 Rn were evaluated in the organs of adult members of the Moroccan rural population from the ingestion of the honey samples. The maximum total committed effective dose due to 238 U, 232 Th and 222 Rn from the ingestion of natural honey by the Moroccan rural population was found to be equal to 0.64 μSνy -1 . (author)

Interim assessment of the denatured 233U fuel cycle: feasibility and nonproliferation characteristics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Abbott, L.S.; Bartine, D.E.; Burns, T.J.

1978-12-01

A fuel cycle that employs 233 U denatured with 238 U and mixed with thorium fertile material is examined with respect to its proliferation-resistance characteristics and its technical and economic feasibility. The rationale for considering the denatured 233 U fuel cycle is presented, and the impact of the denatured fuel on the performance of Light-Water Reactors, Spectral-Shift-Controlled Reactors, Gas-Cooled Reactors, Heavy-Water Reactors, and Fast Breeder Reactors is discussed. The scope of the R, D and D programs to commercialize these reactors and their associated fuel cycles is also summarized and the resource requirements and economics of denatured 233 U cycles are compared to those of the conventional Pu/U cycle. In addition, several nuclear power systems that employ denatured 233 U fuel and are based on the energy center concept are evaluated. Under this concept, dispersed power reactors fueled with denatured or low-enriched uranium fuel are supported by secure energy centers in which sensitive activities of the nuclear cycle are performed. These activities include 233 U production by Pu-fueled transmuters (thermal or fast reactors) and reprocessing. A summary chapter presents the most significant conclusions from the study and recommends areas for future work

Fission fragment yields and total kinetic energy release in neutron-induced fission of235,238U,and239Pu

Science.gov (United States)

Tovesson, F.; Duke, D.; Geppert-Kleinrath, V.; Manning, B.; Mayorov, D.; Mosby, S.; Schmitt, K.

2018-03-01

Different aspects of the nuclear fission process have been studied at Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE) using various instruments and experimental techniques. Properties of the fragments emitted in fission have been investigated using Frisch-grid ionization chambers, a Time Projection Chamber (TPC), and the SPIDER instrument which employs the 2v-2E method. These instruments and experimental techniques have been used to determine fission product mass yields, the energy dependent total kinetic energy (TKE) release, and anisotropy in neutron-induced fission of U-235, U-238 and Pu-239.

Magmatic evolution of a volcano studied by 230Th-238U disequilibrium and trace elements systematics: the Etna case

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Condomines, M.; Allegre, C.J.; Tanguy, J.C.; Kieffer, G.

1982-01-01

Age determinations of several lava flows from Etna through 230 Th- 238 U disequilibrium (internal isochrons) yield a precise chronology of the volcano's history for the last 200,000 years, and emphasize the main episodes in the formation of this huge complex strato-volcano. Study of ( 230 Th/ 232 Th) 0 initial ratios of lavas together with their trace-element compositions yields a consistent model of magmatic evolution implying the existence, for 200,000 years, of a deep reservoir of alkalic magma periodically mixed with magmas of tholeiitic affinity. These short periods of mixing appear to be related to the formation of the large calderas of Etna. In addition to these processes affecting the deep reservoir, fractional crystallization also occurred in more superficial levels of the volcanic edifice, thereby yielding several series of differentiation of relatively short duration. As for its geochemistry, Etna's volcanism is of oceanic type but with its own characteristics and in a peculiar geodynamic context, at the edge of the African Plate. (author)

Independent Yields of Kr Isotopes at Photofission of $^{232}$Th and $^{238}$U

CERN Document Server

Gangrsky, Yu P; Zemlyanoi, S G; Maslova, N Yu; Myshinskii, G V; Norov, K S; Penionzhkevich, Yu E; Selesh, O

2002-01-01

The yields of the primary fission fragments - Kr isotopes - at the photofission of ^{232}Th and ^{238}U were measured. The experiments were performed at the microtron of FLNR, JINR, with the energy of the accelerated electrons 25 MeV. The methodic of fission fragments transportation by the gas flow through the capillary and condensation of the inert gases in the cryostat at the liquid nitrogen temperature was used. The fission fragments of other elements were stopped by the filter on the entrance of the capillary. The identification of the Kr isotopes was performed using the gamma-spectra of their daughter products. The mass distribution of the Kr isotopes independent yields was obtained and the comparison with yields at the prompt and thermal neutron fission was discussed.

Neutron scattering cross sections of uranium-238

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Beghian, L.E.; Kegel, G.H.R.; Marcella, T.V.; Barnes, B.K.; Couchell, G.P.; Egan, J.J.; Mittler, A.; Pullen, D.J.; Schier, W.A.

1979-01-01

The University of Lowell high-resolution time-of-flight spectrometer was used to measure angular distributions and 90-deg excitation functions for neutrons scattered from 238 U in the energy range from 0.9 to 3.1 MeV. This study was limited to the elastic and the first two inelastic groups, corresponding to states of 238 U at 45 keV (2 + ) and 148 keV (4 + ). Angular distributions were measured at primary neutron energies of 1.1, 1.9, 2.5, and 3.1 MeV for the same three neutron groups. Whereas the elastic data are in fair agreement with the evaluation in the ENDF/B-IV file, there is substantial disagreement between the inelastic measurements and the evaluated cross sections. 12 figures

Developments in the modelling approach for radiological safety assessment of "2"3"8U-series radionuclides in waste disposal

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Perez-Sanchez, D.; Thorne, M.

2014-01-01

Human and environmental radiation exposures from sites or areas contaminated with radioactive substances need to be quantified as part of the risk assessment process and for developing long-term remediation strategies. In most radiological assessment models, simplistic, empirical ratios are used to simulate contaminant transfers between environmental compartments. These are favoured because they facilitate modelling. Their use, however, significantly increases the uncertainty of model predictions, because they do not account for the underlying processes that govern spatial and temporal variations in radionuclide concentrations. In relation to more explicit, process-based modelling, representation of the migration of radionuclides in the "2"3"8U decay series in soils and their uptake by plants is of interest in various contexts, including the disposal of radioactive wastes and the remediation of former sites of uranium mining and milling. The structures of models used to assess doses in the biosphere for long-term waste disposal assessments have not changed significantly in the last few years. Several aspects of the model representations of the biosphere are currently being debated in international forums, and these aspects would benefit from further investigation. The potential topics of interest include biogeochemical zonation of radionuclides in the sub-surface, caused by changes in the redox characteristics in response to a variable water table. It has been proposed that traditional model structures are not able to represent this aspect of the system adequately. Major improvements are needed to make models more process-based and capable of simulating the kinetics of contaminant transfers. A major challenge is to identify where the greatest advantages can be gained in reducing model uncertainty and understanding variability, developing criteria to identify if further research is required for parameterizing dynamic-mechanistic models, and identifying the level of

Projectile fission of 238U relativistic ions in a Pb target and discovery of new fission fragments

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bernas, M.; Donzaud, C.; Dessagne, Ph.; Miehe, Ch.; Hanelt, E.; Heinz, A.

1994-01-01

With the 238 U beam accelerated at relativistic energies by the heavy ion synchrotron (SIS) at GSI, fission was investigated using inverse kinematics. This geometry is well suited for analyzing fragments with the fragment separator. The fragments are identified by in flight measurements of their energy loss and time of flight signals. More than forty new isotopes have been discovered focusing on the light branch of fission products. (K.A.) 12 refs., 5 figs., 1 tab

Distribution of radioactive pollution of 238U, 232Th, 40K and 137Cs in northwestern coasts of Persian Gulf, Iran

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Reza Abdi, Mohammad; Kamali, Mehdi; Vaezifar, Sedigheh

2008-01-01

A reconnaissance study has been made of the distribution of 238 U, 232 Th, 40 K and 137 Cs and geochemical features in soils and sediments samples at various locations in the northwestern coast of Persian Gulf. Activity concentration levels due to radionuclides were measured in 30 soil and sediment samples collected from this region. From the measured spectra, activity concentrations were determined for 40 K (range from 146 to 500 Bq kg -1 ), 137 Cs (from 5 to 20 Bq kg -1 ), 238 U (from 21 to 65 Bq kg -1 ) and 232 Th (from 15 to 45 Bq kg -1 ) with lowest limit detection (LLD) of 68, 3.2, 4.3 and 4.3 Bq kg -1 , respectively. The dose rate from ambient air at the soil ranges was between 19 and 58 nGy h -1 with an average of 37.41 ± 9.66 nGy h -1

High-resolution photofission measurements in 238U and 232Th. Progress report, June 1, 1980-February 10, 1981

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lancman, H.

1981-02-01

Intense proton beam currents from the Dynamitron at Brooklyn College have been used to generate gamma rays of variable energy from a number of (p,γ) resonances in various nuclei. Spectra of photofission fragments of 238 U and 232 Th have been measured with an average gamma ray energy resolution of approx. 300 eV. Structure in the photofission cross section of 232 Th was observed at approx. 6176 keV

Neutrons production in thick targets of Be and {sup 238}U bombarded by 100 MeV/u deuterons and in a thick target of C bombarded by 95 MeV/u {sup 36}Ar. Attenuation in concrete and dose equivalent rate of the activated uranium; Neutrons produits dans des cibles epaisses de Be et {sup 238}U irradiees par des deutons de 100 MeV/u et dans une cible epaisse de C irradiee par des {sup 36}Ar de 95 MeV/u. Longueurs d'attenuation dans du beton et debit d'equivalent de dose resultant de l'activation de l'uranium

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Pauwels, N.; Proust, J.; Clapier, F.; Gara, P.; Obert, J. [Paris-11 Univ., 91 - Orsay (France). Inst. de Physique Nucleaire; Mirea, M. [Institute of Physics and Nuclear Engineering, Bucharest (Romania); Belier, G.; Ethvignot, T.; Granier, T. [CEA/DAM-Ile de France, 91 - Bruyeres-Le-Chatel (France). Service de Physique Nucleaire; Liang, C.F. [Paris-11 Univ., 91 - Orsay (France). Centre de Spectrometrie Nucleaire et de Spectrometrie de Masse; Bajard, M.; Leroy, R.; Villari, A.C.C. [Grand Accelerateur National d' Ions Lourds (GANIL), 14 - Caen (France)

1999-09-01

Neutrons production in thick targets of Be and {sup 238}U bombarded by 100 MeV/u deuterons and in a thick target of C bombarded by 95 MeV/u {sup 36}Ar. Attenuation in concrete and dose equivalent rate of the activated uranium. The yields of secondary neutrons produced by the interaction of a beam with thick target were determined with activation detectors. Three projectile-target couples have been studied: deuterons (100 MeV/u)+{sup 238}U, deuterons (100 MeV/u)+{sup 9}Be and {sup 36}Ar (95 MeV/u)+{sup 12}C. At 0 deg.. the yields were also measured after a piece of concrete and the corresponding attenuation length evaluated. The dose rate of the uranium target was monitored during several days after the end of the irradiation. (author)

Contents and daily intakes of gamma-ray emitting nuclides, 90Sr, and 238U using market-basket studies in japan

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sugiyama, Hideo; Terada, Hiroshi; Takahashi, Mitsuko; Iijima, Ikuyo; Isomura, Kimio

2007-01-01

To investigate the contents of radionuclides in foods marketed in Japan and their daily intakes and exposure doses in adults, we performed market-basket studies concerning radionuclide intakes. The study period was 2003-2005, and the studies were performed in 13 cities in Japan. Foods including drinking water were divided into 14 food groups, and samples were prepared by common cooking procedures. γ-ray emitting nuclides (an artificial radionuclide, radioactive Cs, and natural radionuclides, 40 K and U series such as 214 Bi, and 212 Pb, and Th series) were measured in each food group, and artificial radionuclides, 90 Sr and 238 U, were measured in a mixed sample of 13 food groups excluding drinking water. The daily intakes in adults were calculated from the concentrations of the radionuclides and mean daily consumption of foods and drinking water. The daily 137 Cs and 40 K intakes (mBq/person · day) in the 13 cities were 12.5- 90 Sr intake from the food groups excluding drinking water was 20.8-53.6, with a mean of 39.2 (mBq/person · day) (deviation of the mean: 23%). Similarly, the daily 238 U intake was 5.9-31.1, with a mean of 12.6 (mBq/person · day) (deviation: 60%), showing a more than 5-fold difference between the minimum and maximum values, and there were regional differences. Since the contents of the U series, such as 214 Bi and 212 Pb, and Th series were lower than the lower detection limits in many samples, their daily intakes were not calculated. Regarding the daily intake of 137 Cs from each food group, the intakes from fish and shellfish, milk, meat/eggs, and mushrooms/seaweed tended to be higher. The daily 40 K intake from each food group varied among the areas, but the total intake from the 14 food groups was similar in all 13 cities. 40 K from these foods accounted for most of the annual effective dose (μSv/person · year) of γ-ray emitting nuclides, and the doses of 40 K, 90 Sr, and 238 U were 130-217, 0.21-0.55, and 0.10-0.51, respectively

Statistical analysis of parameters of the uranium -238 resonances

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nikolaev, M.N.; Abagyan, L.P.

1976-01-01

It has been shown that the distribution for 238 U p - levels can be in agreement with the theoretical one (Porter - Thomas distribution) only if the significant lack of p - levels in the experiments would be supposed. That means that density of 238 U levels with spin 1/2 is parity dependent, and therefore the whole number of p - resonances is 4.8 (instead of 3) times greater than the number of s - resonances in the same energy internal. With the assumption about spin dependence of strength function it is impossible to agree the experimental distribution with the theoretical one

Natural Radiation in byproducts of the production of phosphoric acid; Radiacao natural em residuos gerados no processo de producao de acido fosforico

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Silveira, Marcilei A. Guazzelli da; Cardoso, L.L., E-mail: marcilei@fei.edu.br [Centro Universitario da FEI, Sao Bernardo do Campo, SP (Brazil); Medina, N.H. [Universidade de Sao Paulo (USP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil). Institutlo de Fisica

2014-07-01

Natural radiation is the largest source of radiation exposure to which man is subject. It is formed basically by cosmic radiation and the radionuclides present in the Earth crust, as {sup 40}K and the elements of the decay series of {sup 232}Th and {sup 238}U. Phosphate ores, which constitutes the raw material for the production of phosphoric acid, have a high rate of natural radiation from the decay series of {sup 232}Th and {sup 238}U. Phosphogypsum, which is naturally radioactivity, is a by-product of the production of phosphoric acid by the wet method. For each ton of phosphoric acid it is produced about 4.5 tons of phosphogypsum. This work presents the analysis of samples collected in all stages of the manufacturing process of phosphoric acid, which generates the phosphogypsum. Gamma-ray spectrometry was used to measure the concentration of the elements of the decay series of {sup 232}Th and {sup 238}U. All analyzed samples showed a high concentration of radionuclides, promoting the need for further steps in the process in order to reduce the presence of such radionuclides in the phosphogypsum. The results indicate the radionuclide {sup 238}U has higher contribution in some samples of the intermediate stages of the process. All samples exceeded the international average range of human exposure to terrestrial gamma radiation, which is 0.3 to 1.0 mSv/year. (author)

Natural Radioactivity of U-238, Th-232 and K-40 in Surface Soil of Baghdad, Nahrain and Al-Mustansiriyah University in Iraq

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ridha, A.A.; Mutter, M.M.; Salim, M.D.

2015-01-01

The study of natural radioactivity in public universities soil is very important because of containing a large numbers of students and personnel in small areas and for long periodic times, especially the centers and gathering students areas. So it was chosen the most important universities in Baghdad city according with the students density, which is Baghdad and Nahrain University in Al-Jadriyah region in addition to Al-Mustansiriyah University in Palestine street region. Thirteen soil samples collected from these regions to estimate the radiological impact to the dweller, the concentrations of 238 U, 232 Th and 40 K present in the soil samples were analyzed using HPGe as Gamma-spectrometry. The results showed that the average radioactivity of 238 U is 26.262±4.52 Bq/ kg, for 232 Th is equal to 24.860±4.03 Bq/ kg and for 40 K is 293.706±16.62 Bq/ kg. Thus, the values of specific activity of 238 U, 232 Th and 40 K for all soil samples are in acceptable values of the worldwide average. The maximum value for Ra eq is 119.727±10.94 Bq/ kg recorded in sample (Bag2), with an average value of 76.938±8.44 Bq/ kg. All soil samples have Ra eq value below the 247 Bq/ kg (Iraqi permissibility limit). In addition to radium equivalent, the absorbed gamma dose rate (D), outdoor annual effective dose and hazard indices are calculated in this work and show low values compared with permissible limits. (author)

Derivation of ingestion dose conversion factors for the U-238 decay series

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jenkins, P.H.; Nicoll, R.M.; Doty, R.L.

1978-01-01

Dose conversion factors (DCF's) for the U-238 decay series were derived for use in the assessment of potential doses to man, through several ingestion pathways, by radionuclide deposition from radioactive airborne effluents. The methodology used, although similar to that outlined in the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission's Regulatory Guide 1.109, is complicated by consideration of the ingrowth of decay products. Eight ingestion pathways were considered: (1) fresh vegetables, (2) stored vegetables, (3) milk from cows that eat pasture grass, (4) milk from cows that eat stored feed, (5) goat milk - pasture grass, (6) goat milk - stored feed, (7) beef - pasture grass, and (8) beef - stored feed. Radionuclide deposition was assumed to occur for the entire operational lifetime of the facility. Because the expected operational lifetime may vary from facility to facility, DCF's were calculated for six lifetimes: 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 years. DCF's were calculated for each of 13 'parent' nuclides in the decay series, with each DCF considering the ingrowth of all subsequent nuclides in the series. The methodology used to derive the DCF's is detailed, and DCF's normalized to a deposition rate of the parent nuclide of 1 μCi m -2 s -1 are reported. (author)

Two-phonon giant resonances in 136Xe, 208Pb, and 238U

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Boretzky, K.; Gruenschloss, A.; Ilievski, S.; Adrich, P.; Aumann, T.; Bertulani, C.A.; Cub, J.; Dostal, W.; Eberlein, B.; Elze, T.W.; Emling, H.; Fallot, M.; Holeczek, J.; Holzmann, R.; Kozhuharov, C.; Kratz, J.V.; Kulessa, R.; Leifels, Y.; Leistenschneider, A.; Lubkiewicz, E.; Mordechai, S.; Ohtsuki, T.; Reiter, P.; Simon, H.; Stelzer, K.; Stroth, J.; Suemmerer, K.; Surowiec, A.; Wajda, E.; Walus, W.

2003-07-01

The excitation of the double-phonon giant dipole resonance was observed in heavy projectile nuclei impinging on targets of high nuclear charge with energies of 500-700 MeV/nucleon. New experimental data are presented for 136 Xe and 238 U together with further analysis of earlier data on 208 Pb. Differential cross sections dσ/dE * and dσ/dθ for electromagnetic excitations were deduced. Depending on the isotope, cross sections appear to be enhanced in comparison to those expected from a purely harmonic nuclear dipole response. The cumulative effect of excitations of two-phonon states composed of one dipole and one quadrupole phonon, of predicted anharmoniticies in the double-phonon dipole response, and of damping of the dipole resonance during the collision may account for the discrepancy. In addition, decay properties of two-phonon resonances were studied and compared to that of a statistical decay. (orig.)

Estimation of uncertainties in {sup 1}H, Zr and {sup 238}U nuclear data contained in JENDL-3.2

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Shibata, Keiichi; Nakajima, Yutaka; Fukahori, Tokio; Chiba, Satoshi; Nakagawa, Tsuneo [Japan Atomic Energy Research Inst., Tokai, Ibaraki (Japan). Tokai Research Establishment; Kawano, Toshihiko

1996-08-01

Uncertainties have been estimated for the total, elastic scattering and capture cross sections of {sup 1}H, the capture, (n,2n) reaction and inelastic scattering cross sections of natural Zr, and the inelastic scattering cross sections and resolved resonance parameters of {sup 238}U. Considering the evaluation method taken for each data, standard deviations and correlation matrices were determined in 18 energy structure. (author). 50 refs.

Influence of soil structure on the "Fv approach" applied to 238U and 226Ra.

Science.gov (United States)

Blanco Rodríguez, P; Vera Tomé, F; Lozano, J C

2017-02-01

The soil-to-plant transfer factors were determined in a granitic area for the two long-lived uranium series radionuclides 238 U and 226 Ra. With the aim to identify a physical fraction of soil whose concentration correlates linearly with the plant concentration, the soil compartment was analyzed in various stages. An initial study identified the soil compartments as being either bulk soil or its labile fraction. The bulk soil was subsequently divided into three granulometric fractions consisting of: coarse sand, fine sand, and silt and clay. The soil-to-plant transfer of radionuclides for each of these three texture fractions was analyzed. Lastly, the labile fraction was extracted from each textural part, and the activity concentration of the radionuclides 238 U and 226 Ra was measured. In order to assess the influence of soil texture on the soil-to-plant transfer process, we sought to identify possible correlations between the activity concentration in the plant compartment and those found in the different fractions within each soil compartment. The results showed that the soil-to-plant transfer process for uranium and radium depends on soil grain size, where the results for uranium showed a linear relationship between the activity concentration of uranium in the plant and the fine soil fraction. In contrast, a linear relation between the activity concentration of radium in the plant and the soil coarse-sand fraction was observed. Additionally, the presence of phosphate and calcium in the soil of all of the compartments studied affected the soil-to-plant transfer of uranium and radium, respectively. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Interim assessment of the denatured /sup 233/U fuel cycle: feasibility and nonproliferation characteristics

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Abbott, L.S.; Bartine, D.E.; Burns, T.J. (eds.)

1978-12-01

A fuel cycle that employs /sup 233/U denatured with /sup 238/U and mixed with thorium fertile material is examined with respect to its proliferation-resistance characteristics and its technical and economic feasibility. The rationale for considering the denatured /sup 233/U fuel cycle is presented, and the impact of the denatured fuel on the performance of Light-Water Reactors, Spectral-Shift-Controlled Reactors, Gas-Cooled Reactors, Heavy-Water Reactors, and Fast Breeder Reactors is discussed. The scope of the R, D and D programs to commercialize these reactors and their associated fuel cycles is also summarized and the resource requirements and economics of denatured /sup 233/U cycles are compared to those of the conventional Pu/U cycle. In addition, several nuclear power systems that employ denatured /sup 233/U fuel and are based on the energy center concept are evaluated. Under this concept, dispersed power reactors fueled with denatured or low-enriched uranium fuel are supported by secure energy centers in which sensitive activities of the nuclear cycle are performed. These activities include /sup 233/U production by Pu-fueled transmuters (thermal or fast reactors) and reprocessing. A summary chapter presents the most significant conclusions from the study and recommends areas for future work.

Radiation protection data sheet. Radiation protection data sheets for the use of radionuclides in unsealed sources

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Anon.

1999-01-01

These radiation protection data sheet are devoted to responsible persons and employees of various laboratories or medical, pharmaceutical, university and industrial departments where radionuclides are handled as well as all the persons who attend to satisfy in this field. They contain the essential radiation protection data for the use of unsealed sources: physical characteristics, risk assessment, administrative procedures, recommendations, regulations and bibliography. This new series includes the following radionuclides: californium 252, curium 244, gallium 67, indium 113m, plutonium 238, plutonium 239, polonium 210, potassium 42, radium 226, thorium 232, uranium 238 and zinc 65. (O.M.)

Implementation of new integrated evaporation equipment for the preparation of 238U targets and improvement of the deposition process

Science.gov (United States)

Vanleeuw, D.; Lewis, D.; Moens, A.; Sibbens, G.; Wiss, T.

2018-05-01

Measurement of neutron cross section data is a core activity of the JRC-Directorate G for Nuclear Safety and Security in Geel. After a period of reduced activity and in line with a renewed interest for nuclear data required for GenIV reactors and waste minimization, the demand for high quality actinide targets increased. Physical vapour deposition by thermal evaporation is a key technique to prepare homogeneous thin actinide layers, but due to ageing effects the earlier in-house developed equipment can no longer provide the required quality. Because of a current lack of experience and human resources cooperation with private companies is required for the development of new deposition equipment directly integrated in a glove box. In this paper we describe the design, implementation and validation of the first commercial actinide evaporator in a glove box as well as the optimization of the deposition process. Highly enriched 238U3O8 was converted to 238UF4 powder and several deposition runs were performed on different substrates. The deposition parameters were varied and defined in order to guarantee physical and chemical stable homogeneous UF4 layers, even on polished substrates which was not longer feasible with the older equipment. The stability problem is discussed in view of the thin layer growth by physical vapour deposition and the influence of the deposition parameters on the layer quality. The deposits were characterized for the total mass by means of substitution weighing and for the areal density of 238U by means of alpha particle counting and thermal ionization mass spectrometry (TIMS). The quality of the layer was visually evaluated and by means of stereo microscopy and auto radiography.

Determination of the concentration of 238U, 234U, 232Th, 228Th, 228Ra, 226Ra and 210Pb in the feces of workers from a mining company of niobium and their families

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Oliveira, Roges de; Lopes, Ricardo T.; Melo, Dunstana R.; Juliao, Ligia M.Q.C.

2005-01-01

The object of this study consists of an open mine from which Niobium ore (pyrochlore) is extracted and a metallurgy company, where Fe-Nb alloys are produced for export. For geological reasons, the main ore is associated to natural radionuclides U and Th, and its decay products. The concentration of 234 U, 238 U, 232 Th, 226 Ra and 228 Ra, 228 Th, including 210 Pb in fecal excretion of 12:0 am, 29 workers and 13 family members were determined. The technique employed for the determination of the elements was the sequential method of radiochemical separation, followed by alpha spectrometry and counting α and β in proportional detector. Statistically significant difference was observed in the concentration of 234 U and 238 U, in feces samples, among the group of mining workers and family members; as well as for 232 Th in the feces of workers of crushing and metallurgy groups when compared with the Family Group. No statistically significant difference was detected at a concentration of 226 Ra, 228 Ra and 210 Pb, in feces of any group of workers of the installation in relation to the family group

Tachyonic cyclotron radiation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tomaschitz, R.

2006-01-01

We study superluminal cyclotron emission by electrons and muons in semiclassical orbits. The tachyonic line spectra of hydrogenic ions such as H, 56 Fe 25+ , and 238 U 91+ , as well as their muonic counterparts pμ - , 56 Fe 26+ μ - and 238 U 92+ μ - are calculated, in particular the tachyonic power transversally and longitudinally radiated, the total intensity, and the power radiated in the individual harmonics. We also investigate tachyonic continuum radiation from electrons and protons cycling in the surface and light cylinder fields of γ -ray and millisecond pulsars, such as the Crab pulsar, PSR B1509-58, and PSR J0218 + 4232. The superluminal spectral densities generated by non-relativistic, mildly relativistic and ultra-relativistic source particles are derived. We study the parameters determining the global shape of the transversal and longitudinal densities and the energy scales of the broadband spectrum. The observed cutoff frequency in the γ-ray band of the pulsars is used to infer the upper edge of the orbital energy, and we conclude that electrons and nuclei cycling in the surface fields can reach energies beyond the ''ankle'' of the cosmic ray spectrum. This suggests γ-ray pulsars as sources of ultra-high energy cosmic rays. (orig.)

Development of sequential analytical method for the determination of U-238, U-234, Th-232, Th-230, Th-228, Ra-226 and Ra-228 and its application in mineral waters

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Costa Lauria, D. da.

1986-01-01

A sequential analytical method for the determination of U-238, U-234, Th-232, Th-230, Th-228, Ra-226 and Ra-228 in environmental samples and applied to the analysis of mineral waters is studied. Thorium isotopes are coprecipitated with lanthanium fluoride before counting in alpha spectrometer, the uranium isotopes are determined by alpha spectrometry following extraction with TOPO onto a polymenic membrane. Radium-226 is determined with the radom emanation technique. (M.J.C.) [pt

Radiation dose in the high background radiation area in Kerala, India.

Science.gov (United States)

Christa, E P; Jojo, P J; Vaidyan, V K; Anilkumar, S; Eappen, K P

2012-03-01

A systematic radiological survey has been carried out in the region of high-background radiation area in Kollam district of Kerala to define the natural gamma-radiation levels. One hundred and forty seven soil samples from high-background radiation areas and five samples from normal background region were collected as per standard sampling procedures and were analysed for (238)U, (232)Th and (40)K by gamma-ray spectroscopy. External gamma dose rates at all sampling locations were also measured using a survey meter. The activities of (238)U, (232)Th and (40)K was found to vary from 17 to 3081 Bq kg(-1), 54 to 11976 Bq kg(-1) and BDL (67.4 Bq kg(-1)) to 216 Bq kg(-1), respectively, in the study area. Such heterogeneous distribution of radionuclides in the region may be attributed to the deposition phenomenon of beach sand soil in the region. Radium equivalent activities were found high in several locations. External gamma dose rates estimated from the levels of radionuclides in soil had a range from 49 to 9244 nGy h(-1). The result of gamma dose rate measured at the sampling sites using survey meter showed an excellent correlation with dose rates computed from the natural radionuclides estimated from the soil samples.

Solubility of reactor fuels in the mouse lung with respect to their U/Pu and 238Pu/239Pu ratios

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Talbot, R.J.; Baker, S.T.

1989-01-01

The studies reported were designed to assess the comparative in vivo solubilities of a range of plutonium containing reactor fuels. To simulate these fuels, mixed U/Pu oxides were prepared and calcined at 1600 0 C. A plutonium content of 3% w/w was chosen as typical of water-cooled reactor fuel. Higher concentrations of plutonium (10, 20 and 30%) were included to simulate fast reactor fuel. As it is known that 238 PuO 2 , with high specific activity, is translocated more rapidly from lung than 239 PuO 2 , the effect of isotopic composition of plutonium in simulated reactor fuels was also investigated. For this purpose, both the water-cooled and fast-reactor fuels were prepared with plutonium containing 2% of 238 Pu by weight. The resulting oxides had about 6 times the specific activity of those prepared with 239 Pu. Groups of mice were killed at 1, 3, 6, 12 and 18 months after inhaling aerosols of the simulated reactor fuels. After 3 months, measurements of Pu retention in the lung showed no marked differences between materials. After 6 months, measurements of plutonium deposited in the liver and skeleton showed that mixed U/Pu oxides were more soluble in vivo than 239 PuO 2 . Their solubility was inversely related to their plutonium content. The addition of 238 Pu to the plutonium resulted in enhanced translocation of plutonium from the lung, in the cases of water-cooled reactor fuel by a factor of two. (author)

Triple-humped fission barrier model for a new {sup 238}U neutron cross-section evaluation and first validations

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lopez Jimenez, M.J. [CEA/DIF/DPTA/Service de Physique Nucleaire, B.P. 12, F-91680 Bruyeres-le-Chatel (France); Morillon, B. [CEA/DIF/DPTA/Service de Physique Nucleaire, B.P. 12, F-91680 Bruyeres-le-Chatel (France); Romain, P. [CEA/DIF/DPTA/Service de Physique Nucleaire, B.P. 12, F-91680 Bruyeres-le-Chatel (France)]. E-mail: pascal.romain@cea.fr

2005-01-15

A new neutron-induced cross-section evaluation of {sup 238}U from 1 keV up to 200 MeV has been performed using only nuclear reactions models. A new fission penetrability model taking into account a triple humped barrier has been developed. A clear improvement has been observed for K-effective validation tests (up to 30 MeV) with this new evaluation. This improvement is mainly due to a better treatment of the inelastic exit channel.

The evaluation of the mass distribution data for 238U, 239Pu and 242Pu fission

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Liu Tingjin

2002-01-01

The mass distribution data for 238 U at E n =1.5, 5.5, 8.3, 11.3, 14.9, 22.0, 27.5, 50.0, 99.5, 160.0 MeV, E p =20.0, 60.0 MeV 239 Pu at E n =0.17, 7.9, 14.5 MeV and 242 Pu at E n =15.1 MeV were evaluated and recommended based on the main available experimental data up to now. The experimental data were make necessary corrections and their errors were also made necessary adjustments. The problems concerned were discussed

Estimation of internal radiation dose to the adult Asian population from the dietary intakes of two long-lived radionuclides

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Iyengar, G.V. E-mail: v.iyengar@iaea.org; Kawamura, H.; Dang, H.S.; Parr, R.M.; Wang, J.W.; Akhter, Perveen; Cho, S.Y.; Natera, E.; Miah, F.K.; Nguyen, M.S

2004-07-01

Daily dietary intakes of two naturally occurring long-lived radionuclides, {sup 232}Th and {sup 238}U, were estimated for the adult population living in a number of Asian countries, using highly sensitive analytical methods such as instrumental and radiochemical neutron activation analysis (INAA and RNAA), and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The Asian countries that participated in the study were Bangladesh (BGD), China (CPR), India (IND), Japan (JPN), Pakistan (PAK), Philippines (PHI), Republic of Korea (ROK) and Vietnam (VIE). Altogether, these countries represent more than 50% of the world population. The median daily intakes of {sup 232}Th ranged between 0.6 and 14.4 mBq, the lowest being for Philippines and the highest for Bangladesh, and daily intakes of {sup 238}U ranged between 6.7 and 62.5 mBq, lowest and the highest being for India and China, respectively. The Asian median intakes were obtained as 4.2 mBq for {sup 232}Th and 12.7 mBq for {sup 238}U. Although the Asian intakes were lower than intakes of 12.3 mBq (3.0 {mu}g) {sup 232}Th and 23.6 mBq (1.9 {mu}g) {sup 238}U proposed by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) for the ICRP Reference Man, they were comparable to the global intake values of 4.6 mBq {sup 232}Th and 15.6 mBq {sup 238}U proposed by the United Nation Scientific Commission on Effects of Radiation (UNSCEAR). The annual committed effective doses to Asian population from the dietary intake of {sup 232}Th and {sup 238}U were calculated to be 0.34 and 0.20 {mu}Sv, respectively, which are three orders of magnitude lower than the global average annual radiation dose of 2400 {mu}Sv to man from the natural radiation sources as proposed by UNSCEAR.

Thallium, uranium, and 235U/238U ratios in the digestive gland of American lobster (Homarus americanus) from an industrialized harbor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chou, C.L.; Uthe, J.F.

1995-01-01

Only a few studies have concentrated on elements such as thallium (TI). Uranium (U) has been studied as a radionuclide of concern in food and the environment. Foodstuffs contain 10-100 ng U· -1 with vegetables and cereals contributing most heavily to the daily intake of ca 1.5 ug U. Between 10-30% of ingested U is absorbed, with most being stored in bone. Rainbow trout (onchorynchus mykiss) and longnose sucker (Catostomus catostomus) from a lake with naturally high radioactivity contained -1 in the flesh. Trout bone contained 40 ng U·g -1 . Higher tissue U concentrations occurred in fish from areas receiving U mining wastes. Bioconcentration factors for bone and flesh were estimated to be low, 118 and 14.7, respectively. This paper describes the Inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) determination of Tl and U in digestive gland tissue from lobsters captured in the vicinity of Belledune Harbor, New Brunswick, Canada. The harbor is the site of a lead smelter, a fertilizer plant, and a coal-fired power station (the latter due to enter production in late 1993) and thus has the potential of adding significant amounts of Tl to the local marine environment. The accumulation of Tl from water by marine shellfish is low, at least for bivalves, and the accumulated Tl is eliminated in a number of days when the animals are transferred to clean water. Bioconcentration factors for U in finfish ranged from 0.4-17 for larger species. However, because of the high concentrations of various trace elements in lobster digestive gland, its desirability as a foodstuff, and its relatively large size (approximately 20% of the edible tissue yield), we have investigated Tl and U concentrations and 235U / 238U ratios in it. 15 refs., 1 fig., 3 tabs

Plutonium Bioassay Testing of U.S. Atmospheric Nuclear Test Participants and U.S. Occupation Forces of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan

Science.gov (United States)

2015-10-30

C H N IC A L R EP O R T This page intentionally left blank. STANDARD FORM 298 (Rev. 8/98) REPORT DOCUMENTATION PAGE Form Approved OMB No...Program In 1984, the Veterans’ Dioxin and Radiation Exposure Compensation Standards Act (PL 98-542, 1984) called for the study of alternative scientific...quantities of natural uranium (including isotopes of interest such as 238U and 235U). Consequently, 239Pu identification by urinalysis was proposed

Multilevel effect in uranium-238 and thorium-232 effective neutron capture resonance integrals

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tellier, H.

1981-01-01

Until now, there has been a discrepancy between the computed and the measured values of the /sup 238/U effective capture integral. Recently, several new measurements of the resonance parameters were carried out and the use of a multilevel formalism was suggested to compute the /sup 238/U cross sections. This paper shows that the simultaneous use of recent parameters and the Reich-Moore formalism explain the discrepancy. 31 refs

Estimation of uncertainties in resonance parameters of {sup 56}Fe, {sup 239}Pu, {sup 240}Pu and {sup 238}U

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Nakagawa, Tsuneo; Shibata, Keiichi [Japan Atomic Energy Research Inst., Tokai, Ibaraki (Japan). Tokai Research Establishment

1997-05-01

Uncertainties have been estimated for the resonance parameters of {sup 56}Fe, {sup 239}Pu, {sup 240}Pu and {sup 238}U contained in JENDL-3.2. Errors of the parameters were determined from the measurements which the evaluation was based on. The estimated errors have been compiled in the MF32 of the ENDF format. The numerical results are given in tables. (author)

Neutron and gamma-ray emission in the proton induced fission of {sup 238}U and {sup 242}Pu

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Kniajeva, G.N.; Krupa, L.; Bogachev, A.A.; Chubarian, G.G.; Dorvaux, O.; Itkis, I.M.; Itkis, M.G.; Kliman, J.; Khlebnikov, S.; Kondratiev, N.A.; Kozulin, E.M.; Lyapin, V.; Materna, T.; Pokrovsky, I.V.; Rubchenya, V.A.; Trzaska, W.H.; Vakhtin, D.; Voskressenski, V.M

2004-04-05

Average prescission M{sup pre}{sub n} and postscission M{sup post}{sub n} neutron multiplicities as well as average {gamma}-ray multiplicity , average energy emitted by {gamma}-rays as a function of mass and total kinetic energy (TKE) of fission fragments were measured in proton induced reactions p+{sup 242}Pu{yields}{sup 243}Am, p+{sup 238}U{yields}{sup 239}Np at proton energy E{sub p}=13, 20 and 55 MeV.

The fission cross sections of /sup 230/Th, /sup 232/Th, /sup 233/U, /sup 234/U, /sup 236/U, /sup 238/U, /sup 237/Np, /sup 239/Pu and /sup 242/Pu relative /sup 235/U at 14. 74 MeV neutron energy

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Meadows, J.W.

1986-12-01

The measurement of the fission cross section ratios of nine isotopes relative to /sup 235/U at an average neutron energy of 14.74 MeV is described with particular attention to the determination of corrections and to sources of error. The results are compared to ENDF/B-V and to other measurements of the past decade. The ratio of the neutron induced fission cross section for these isotopes to the fission cross section for /sup 235/U are: /sup 230/Th - 0.290 +- 1.9%; /sup 232/Th - 0.191 +- 1.9%; /sup 233/U - 1.132 +- 0.7%; /sup 234/U - 0.998 +- 1.0%; /sup 236/U - 0.791 +- 1.1%; /sup 238/U - 0.587 +- 1.1%; /sup 237/Np - 1.060 +- 1.4%; /sup 239/Pu - 1.152 +- 1.1%; /sup 242/Pu - 0.967 +- 1.0%. 40 refs., 11 tabs., 9 figs.

Neutron induced fission cross sections for /sup 232/Th, /sup 235,238/U, /sup 237/Np and /sup 239/Pu from 1 to 400 MeV

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lisowski, P.W.; Ullmann, J.L.; Balestrini, S.J.; Carlson, A.D.; Wasson, O.A.; Hill, N.W.

1988-01-01

Neutron-induced fission cross section ratios for samples of /sup 232/Th, /sup 235,238/U, /sup 237/Np and /sup 239/Pu have been measured from 1 to 400 MeV. The fission reaction rate was determined for all samples simultaneously using a fast parallel plate ionization chamber at a 20-m flight path. A well characterized annular proton recoil telescope was used to measure the neutron fluence up to 30 MeV. These data provided the shape of the /sup 235/U(n,f) cross section relative to the hydrogen scattering cross section. That shape was then normalized to the very accurately known values were determined using the neutron fluence measured with a second proton recoil telescope. Cross section values for /sup 232/Th, /sup 238/U, /sup 237/Np, and /sup 239/Pu were computed from the ratio data using our values for /sup 235/U(n,f). In addition to providing new results at high neutron energies, these data resolve long standing discrepancies among different data sets. 1 ref., 1 fig.

Assessment of natural radionuclides concentration from 238U and 232Th series in Virginia and Burley varieties of Nicotiana tabacum L

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Silva, Carolina Fernanda da

2015-01-01

Brazil is the largest exporter and second largest producer of tobacco worldwide, according to the crop production of 2013/2014. The tobacco plant (Nicotiana tabacum L.) is used to manufacture all derivatives and the chemical composition of the resulting tobacco products varies with the type of tobacco leaves, how they are grown, the region where they are cultivated, the characteristics of preparation (compression, filter and paper) and the temperature variations resulting from the incomplete combustion of tobacco. Tobacco products are extensively used throughout the world, and the most consumed are cigarettes, cigars and narghile. The damaging effects that these products cause to human health are discussed globally, and many surveys are performed with the aim of relating the use of these products with various illnesses. There is a lack of information about the radiological characterization of the tobacco plant both in international and Brazilian literature. The objective of this study was to determine the concentration of radionuclides 238 U, 234 U, 230 Th, 22 '6Ra, 210 Pb and 210 Po, members from the 238 U decay series, and the radionuclides 232 Th and 228 Ra members of the 232 Th decay series in the varieties Burley and Virginia, which are the most cultivated in Brazil. Plants from these varieties were cultivated in pots with organic substrate and fertilizer and also acquired from the producers and analyzed by alpha spectrometry for U and Th isotopes and 210 Po determination, and gross alpha and beta counting, 228 Ra, 226 Ra and 210 Pb determination. The whole plant, from both places, was analyzed; root, stem, leaves, as well as the organic substrate, the fertilizers, and the soil. The results for U and Th isotopes presented values below the detection limits of the methods to the leaves and stems of all plants analyzed, with measurable results only in roots, soil, and substrate. The radionuclides 226 Ra, 228 Ra, 210 Pb, and 210 Po, were determined in most

Availability of U-238 and Th-232 present in phosphogypsum used in agriculture: precision and accuracy of the methodology

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Malheiro, Luciano H.; Saueia, Catia H.R.; Mazzilli, Barbara P.

2013-01-01

Phosphogypsum (PG) can be classified as Technologically Enhanced Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (TENORM), and it is obtained as a residue of the phosphate fertilizer industry. PG presents in its composition radionuclides of the natural U and Th series: mainly Ra-226, Ra-228, Th-232, Pb-210 and Po-210. The Brazilian producers stock the PG in dry stacks, posing risks to the surrounding environment. A possible solution to this problem is to reuse PG in agriculture; however, it is necessary to ensure that the radionuclides present in the PG will not be available to the agricultural products. This study is part of a research project sponsored by Fundacao de Amparo a Pesquisa do Estado de Sao Paulo (FAPESP - 2010-10587-0) entitled 'Availability of metals and radionuclides in tropical soils amended with phosphogypsum', and its objective is to evaluate the reliability of an optimal methodology to determine U-238 and Th-232 in samples of soils amended with PG through percolation with water. The methodology comprises a sequential radiochemical separation of the radionuclides present in the leachate. The UTEVA resin was used for the purification and separation of U-238 and Th-232, and the final activity concentrations were determined by alpha spectrometry. The precision and accuracy of the methodology were checked by measuring standard reference material. The results obtained for the relative error and relative standard deviation varied respectively from 2.34 % to 5.92 % and 6.10 % to 6.21 % for uranium, and from 0.42 % to 3.13 % and 9.68 % to 10.97 % for thorium. (author)

Tracing of natural radionuclides mobility in deep sedimentary environment using radioactive (234U/238U) disequilibria: application to the Mesozoic formations of the Eastern part of the Paris Basin

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Deschamps, P.

2003-11-01

This thesis forms part of the geological investigations undertaken by the French agency for nuclear waste management, ANDRA, around the Meuse/Haute-Marne Underground Research Laboratory (URL) located in the Eastern part of the Paris Basin in order to evaluate the feasibility of high-level radioactive waste repository in deep argilite formations. The aim of the study is to examine the radionuclide migration in the deep Callovo-Oxfordian target argilite layer and its surrounding low- permeability Bathonian and Oxfordian limestone formations in order to assess the long term confining capacities of the sedimentary series. This study is based on measurement of radioactive disequilibria within U-series by Multiple- Collector Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (MC-ICP-MS). The high precision and accuracy achieved allowed to demonstrate the 234 U/ 238 U radioactive equilibrium in the Callovo-Oxfordian argilites. This result shows the uranium immobility in the target formation and provides a strong evidence for the current chemical stability and closure of the system for uranium and most probably for the other actinides. This is a fundamental result with respect to the problematic of disposal of high level radioactive waste in deep geological formation since it provides a in situ indication of the confining capacities of the clayey target formation in the current settings. Conversely, ( 234 U/ 238 U) disequilibria are systematically observed within zones, located in the surrounding carbonate formations, that are characterized by pressure dissolution structures (stylolites or dissolution seams). These disequilibria provide evidence for a discrete uranium relocation during the last two million years in the vicinity of stylolitic structures. This is a surprising result since it is generally supposed that these deep, low permeability, compact formations behave as closed system at the time scale of the U-series. (author)