In-situ self-powered monitoring of stored spent nuclear fuel

Abstract

Detectors are used to monitor the status of spent nuclear fuel storage containers non-invasively while they remain in storage casks. The detectors measure neutron flux and γ-ray flux and may also measure temperature variations of the spent nuclear fuel. The measurements can be accomplished actively or passively, with minimal exposure of individuals to radiation fields or other hazardous conditions. Preferred neutron and γ-ray detectors have a semiconductor active region that is resistant to neutron damage. Incipient structural failures may also be detected using measurements based on electrical continuity, with data being transmitted to an external pickup coil.

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