Genetic algorithms – A new technique for solving the neutron spectrum unfolding problem

A new technique utilizing genetic algorithms has been applied to the Bonner sphere neutron spectrum unfolding problem. Genetic algorithms are part of a relatively new field of “evolutionary” solution techniques that mimic living systems with computer-simulated “chromosome” solutions. Solutions mate and mutate to create better solutions. Several benchmark problems, considered representative of radiation protection environments, have been evaluated using the newly developed UMRGA code which implements the genetic algorithm unfolding technique. The results are compared with results from other well-established unfolding codes. The genetic algorithm technique works remarkably well and produces solutions with relatively high spectral qualities. UMRGA appears to be a superior technique in the absence of a priori data – it does not rely on “lucky” guesses of input spectra. Calculated personnel doses associated with the unfolded spectra match benchmark values within a few percent.