Application of the coupled-channel optical model to the calculations of fast neutron cross sections on odd-A actinide nuclei

The application of the coupled-channel optical model to the calculations of reaction and direct interactions cross sections on actinide nuclei is presented. One of the most important reasons for paying particular attention to the optical model parameterisation is the obtention of a parameter set suited for extrapolation to neighbouring nuclei. The various methods used to determine a coherent set of parameters within the whole energy range 10 keV - 20 MeV are discussed. The parametrisation thus obtained for even-A nuclei can serve as a guide for the odd-A ones. The procedures used for calculating neutron cross sections for odd-A nuclei: 233U, 235U, 237Np, 239Pu, 241Am are commented. A special consideration is given to the compound nucleus formation cross sections and the neutron penetrabilities in the energy range 10 keV - 5 MeV considered as very important for applied purposes