Prediction of calorimeter equilibrium

Calorimetry provides a highly accurate and precise method for the assay of plutonium in nuclear fuels, but is often limited by the time required to make a single measurement. Several hours may be required for temperature equilibration depending on the physical size and heat capacity of the sample. A mathematical technique has been developed to predict the equilibrium value of a calorimeter output. When applied to an assay system, this predictive capability will reduce sample analysis time and, consequently, increase sample throughput. Reductions in analysis times ranging from 40 to 66 percent have been realized by applying this technique to three different size resistance-bridge calorimeters