WPNCS Expert Group on Assay Data of Spent Nuclear Fuel

This NEA expert group was set up to pursue two activities in parallel: updating the NEA spent fuel isotopic composition database (SFCOMPO), and writing a state-of-the-art report on the assay data of spent nuclear fuel. The expert group's report will cover the full process, ranging from the experimental methods used to the best way to present and structure the data for its various applications. The data's applications include: burn-up credit analysis, reactor system monitoring, fuel reprocessing and radioactive waste management.

Under the guidance of the Working Party on Nuclear Criticality Safety, the major assignments of the expert group include:

• analysing the SFCOMPO database in order to assess the current situation and the need for new experimental data;
• collecting new isotopic composition data from post-irradiation examination (PIE) and incorporating them and their associated operating histories/data into the SFCOMPO database. The expert group will review the format of the SFCOMPO database.
• archiving original reports on any PIE data included in the SFCOMPO database, as well adding data references that were used in the original development of the data;
• providing technical advice in support of PIE activities in member countries and promoting international collaboration.  

Ongoing work

• SFCOMPO: Spent Fuel Isotopic Composition Database
• Archives of reports used in the SFCOMPO DB
• State-of-the-art report (in preparation, password required)
• Special session on Assay Data for spent nuclear fuel during ICNC 2007
• Working area (password required)

Related links

NEA Working Party on Nuclear Criticality Safety

Nuclear Science Committee

E-mail contact: Yolanda Rugama (rugama@nea.fr)

Last updated: 26 September 2007