The effect of neutron field parameters on 252Cf yield

Some optimization methods of increasing 252Cf yield during reactor irradiation are described. These methods are based on the sensitivity of 252Cf yield to neutron spectrum. Calculation results on optimal neutron spectrum choice are presented. Results show that if the thermal neutron flux density is fixed, the optimal epithermal neutron flux density appears and in this case the 252Cf yield is maximum for a given irradiation time. Some new schemes of 252Cf accumulation are proposed. Experimental results of these schemes are checked to show increasing 252Cf yield of 10–15% as compared with usual irradiation.