Analysis and intercomparison of Phase I experiments at FNS. Article 9

Phase I integral experiments of US/JAERI Collaborative Program on Fusion Breeder Neutronics which were carried out at the Fusion Neutron Source (FNS) facility at JAERI ranged from a D-T neutron source characterization experiment, tritium production rate (TPR) measurements in a reference Li/sub 2/O assembly, first wall experiments with and without coolant stimulation and beryllium neutron multiplier experiments in various configurations. Phase II experiments for the program (not reported here) are planned to be carried out during FY/86-87 where the system specifications (geometrical arrangement, material selection, etc.) are chosen to give closer situation to the fusion reactor environment (spectra). Both US and JAERI have independently analyzed Phase I experiments using their own data base and codes. Analytical predictions obtained by both countries were compared to measured values. The main objective of the intercomparison is to determine the accuracy, guide the development and establish the validity of present computational methods and nuclear data base in predicting key fusion blanket design parameters (e.g., TPR, heating rate, etc.,) and to evaluate the overall uncertainties (both analytical and experimental) associated with these parameters.