Analysis of Reactivity Measurements in Core Physics Experiments on Full-MOX BWR

A core physics experimental program FUBILA has been performed to study core physics characteristics of full-MOX BWR cores consisting of high Pu-enriched MOX assemblies for high burnups. The program includes the measurement of reactivity worth, which is essential in operating BWR cores. The reactivity worth is due to the reactivity caused by (1) changes in the in-channel void fraction of assemblies, (2) the insertion of a B4C control blade, (3) Gd2O3-UO2 rods and UO2 rods in assemblies, and (4) the mixing of boron in a moderator related to a stand-by liquid control system. The reactivity worth was measured by the modified neutron source multiplication method using the reactivity worth of a pilot rod as a reference worth. The measured reactivity worth was determined by processing count rates of neutron detectors taking into account the detector efficiency and effective neutron source intensity analyzed by three-dimensional transport calculations. Comparing the measured reactivity worth with the results obta...