Experimental capabilities of the proposed neutron activation analysis facilities in the advanced neutron source

The advanced neutron source (ANS) is a research reactor, currently in the conceptual design phase, that is projected to be completed by the end of the 1990s. The thermal power of this heavy-water-cooled and -moderated reactor will be ∼300 MW. The core volume will be 27 ell, which is designed to provide the optimum neutron flux for the numerous experimental facilities. The peak thermal neutron flux is ∼1016 n/cm2·s. The ANS is being designed primarily to provide the best facilities in the world for neutron scattering research. In addition to the 40 neutron scattering stations, however, there will be extensive facilities for isotope production, material irradiation, and analytical chemistry. The highlight of this reactor will be the capability that it will provide for conducting research using cold neutrons. Two cryostats containing helium-cooled liquid deuterium will be located in the heavy-water reflector tank. Each cryostat will provide low-temperature neutrons to at least 12 radial guides and one slant beam tube. A hot source with two beam tubes and several thermal beam tubes will also be available. The analytical chemistry facilities for neutron irradiation research in the ANS can be divided into the categories of beam and nonbeam systems. The latter are the usual pneumatically operated systems that are designed for neutron activation analysis, whereas the beam systems refer to those that are to be used for prompt gamma-ray analysis and neutron depth profiling