High sensitivity calorimeters for nuclear studies

SETARAM Instrumentation develops and sells large volume calorimeters for the characterization of nuclear materials, and more particularly the analysis of radioactive waste and quantification of radioactive elements (e.g. curium, plutonium, tritium). These instruments are also used to measure the energy of hard gamma and neutron emitting sources in shielded containers. At the end of 2003, the Military Application Department ordered two large-volume calorimeters capable of accommodating 60- and 90-liter containers, for the CEA (Atomic Energy Commission) center of Valduc. These calorimeters, developed and supplied by SETARAM Instrumentation in 2004, are to be used to measure a mass of radioactive gas contained in sealed metal containers. These calorimeters can accurately measure very low thermal effects (less than 10 μW/litre, that is to say 10 nW/ml), which makes them powerful working tools for nuclear applications. The calorimeters, which confirm to EC standards, are placed in glove boxes under controlled atmosphere. The construction materials are chosen for their good fire resistance and the fact that they can be easily decontaminated. All the electronic unit ensuring temperature control, heating power and data acquisition, can be remotely positioned outside the contaminating zone. (author)