Measurement at n_TOF of the 237 Np(n,gamma) and 240 Pu(n,gamma) Cross Sections for the Transmutation of Nuclear Waste

Abstract

The final design, safety assessment and precise performance analysis of transmutation devices such as Accelerator Driven Systems (ADS) or Fast Critical Reactors, need accurate and reliable nuclear data. The cross sections of 237Np and 240Pu have been measured in 2004 at n_TOF with good accuracy due to a combination of features unique in the world: high instantaneous neutron fluence and excellent energy resolution of the n_TOF facility [1], innovative Data Acquisition System based on flash ADCs and the use of a high performance BaF2 Total Absorption Calorimeter as a detection device.