Generation and Verification of ENDF/B-VII.0 Cross section Libraries for Monte Carlo Calculations

For Monte Carlo neutronics calculations, a continuous energy nuclear data library is needed. It can be generated from various evaluated nuclear data files such as ENDF/B using the ACER routine of the NJOY.code after a series of prior processing involving various other NJOY routines. Recently, a utility code, which generates the NJOY input decks in an automated mode, named ANJOYMC became available. The use of this code greatly reduces the user's effort and the possibility of input errors. In December 2006, the initial version of the ENDF/BVII nuclear data library was released. It was reported that the new data files have much better data which reduces the errors noted in the previous versions. Thus it is worthwhile to examine the performance of the new data files particularly using an independent Monte Carlo code, MCCARD and the ANJOYMC utility code. The verification of the newly generated library can be readily performed by analyzing numerous standard criticality benchmark problems