In partnership with SME John Caunt Scientific Ltd, the University of Liverpool has developed a robust and inexpensive antineutrino detector based on state-of-the-art technology. The detector already meets IAEA requirements for field deployment, is non-intrusive to reactor systems, requires only a power supply and data connection, operates at 60 meters from the core, and is located above ground. Essentially it can operate for months without human intervention, outside the reactor building, at low maintenance and overhead.
Developed for the T2K neutrino detection experiment in Japan, the detector is composed of a plastic scintillator array with sensors and is housed within an environmentally stable freight container. The incorporation of a novel, integrated cosmic ray veto system allows it to operate efficiently above ground (a major limitation of the other research systems). The system has recently completed successful tests at Wylfa nuclear power station in the UK.
The detector addresses the three major challenges for nuclear power:
- Improving safeguards to prevent nuclear proliferation
- Improving value extracted from fuel
- Decreasing the generation of nuclear waste
The detector will observe the bulk burn-up of fuel and provide accountancy on the fissile materials within reactor cores. This ‘real time’ information will allow more efficient use of fuel through direct, continuous knowledge of core burn-up and isotope proportions, whilst verifying Pu burn-up.
The detector will also improve reactor simulations. Advances in high performance computing, particularly parallel computing, are allowing simulations to move from bulk models of cores to finite element, more scientific models with higher resolution simulations. Data from the device is being folded in to the simulations providing validation to the codes and further enhancements to efficiency beyond that provided solely by the detector. Continual comparison between simulation and data will provide both a useful operational accountancy and safeguards tool.
In non-weapons states which adhere to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), IAEA safeguards procedures are more stringent, more frequent and thus more costly. The detector will enable reductions in numbers of inspections and reduced numbers / time of shutdowns for inspections. The device could provide additional non-proliferation assurances in regions where this is a significant issue. The remote nature of the device also means that no access to commercially or politically sensitive areas of a site is needed.