Criticality safety analysis of a borated-concrete absorber

Fuel cycle facilities use slab tanks to store fissile solutions, because these tanks have both a high volume-to-floor-space efficiency and an easily verifiable, criticality control (thickness). The results of preliminary criticality analyses using a validated computer code and cross-section library, indicate that a slab tank designed without a solid neutron absorber is not economical in view of process requirements (inventory) and space limitations (layout). A subsequent calculational study assessed the possible increase in the thickness of a single, isolated slab tank using a solid neutron absorber. Finally, an analysis was performed to evaluate the maximum slab thickness for an array of tank/absorbers. The result of these studies shows the potential for expansion of slab tank thickness