Least-squares finite-element SN method for solving three-dimensional transport equation

A discrete ordinates finite-element method for solving three-dimensional first-order neutron transport equation is proposed using a least-squares variation. It avoids the singularity in void regions of the method derived from the second-order equation. Different from using the standard Galerkin variation applying to the first-order equation, the least-squares variation results in a symmetric matrix, which can be solved easily and effectively. The approach allows a continuous finite-element. To eliminate the discontinuity of the angular flux on the fixed flux boundary in the spherical harmonics method, the equation is discretized using the discrete ordinates method for angular dependency. A three-dimensional transport simulation code is developed and applied to some benchmark problems with unstructured geometry. The numerical results demonstrate the accuracy and feasibility of the method.