The fundamental tenet of the Interaction of IIRM-URA framework is the Cross-Cutting Research Initiative (CCRI). Much of the experimental work in the three research areas is expected to inform, and be informed by, modeling and simulation efforts. Technical collaboration, peer review, and code sharing across the research topics and research areas is expected and will enhance the alliance research outcomes. Investigators from all research areas collaborate to build a computational framework to predict and analyze material interaction with ionizing radiation.
The Radiation Science and Engineering Center (RSEC) at Penn State
The Radiation Science and Engineering Center (RSEC) at Penn State houses a 1 MW Training, Research, Isotopes, and General Atomics (TRIGA) reactor core with pulsing capabilities of up to 2000 MW. RSEC manages the reactor as well as several gamma and neutron testing facilities with various sample fixturing options, the dimensions, dose rate capabilities, and testing capabilities are outlined below. Materials irradiated in the gamma facility do NOT become radioactive.
Contact: IIRM-URA@psu.edu
The University of Florida Training Reactor (UFTR)
The University of Florida Training Reactor (UFTR) is a 100 kW Argonaut-class nuclear reactor with multiple neutron beam ports and a fast-RABBIT pneumatic tube system, which allows short, online irradiations of samples, and rapid withdrawal for measurement. The reactor is available for online detector irradiation in mixed fields for qualification measurements, and for offline irradiation for testing of detector degradation to radiation damage. Recently, the UFTR successfully completed its license renewal process with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and is licensed to operate until March 31, 2037.
The associated Gamma Irradiation Facility has three primary sources and irradiation chambers of similar configuration for low and high dose rates as summarized in the table below. The radioactive sources are double-encapsulated for maximum safety. For example, the 60Co source is encapsulated in a 316 stainless-steel cylinder (1.40” height X 0.445” diameter). The cylinder has been sealed into the end of a pre-drilled stainless-steel rod (11” length X 0.625” diameter). The associated irradiator has an interior working volume of 18” (depth) X 16” (width) X 15” (height).
Contact: jnino@mse.ufl.edu