ASTM E1297-18
Standard Test Method for Measuring Fast-Neutron Reaction Rates by Radioactivation of Niobium

Standard No.

ASTM E1297-18

Release Date

2018

Published By

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

Latest

ASTM E1297-18

Scope

1.1 This test method describes procedures for measuring reaction rates by the activation reaction 93 Nb(n,n')93m Nb. 1.2 This activation reaction is useful for monitoring neutrons with energies above approximately 0.5 MeV and for irradiation times up to about 48 years (three half-lives), provided that the analysis methods described in Practice E261 are followed. 1.3 With suitable techniques, fast-neutron reaction rates for neutrons with energy distribution similar to fission neutrons can be determined in fast-neutron fluences above about 1016 cm−2 . In the presence of high thermal-neutron fluence rates (>1012 cm−2 ·s−1 ), the transmutation of 93m Nb due to neutron capture should be investigated. In the presence of high-energy neutron spectra such as are associated with fusion and spallation sources, the transmutation of 93m Nb by reactions such as (n,2n) may occur and should be investigated. 1.4 Procedures for other fast-neutron monitors are referenced in Practice E261. 1.5 Fast-neutron fluence rates can be determined from the reaction rates provided that the appropriate cross section information is available to meet the accuracy requirements. 1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. 1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.8 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

ASTM E1297-18 Referenced Document

• ASTM D1193 Standard Specification for Reagent Water
• ASTM E1005 Standard Test Method for Application and Analysis of Radiometric Monitors for Reactor Vessel Surveillance, E 706(IIIA)
• ASTM E1006 Standard Practice for Analysis and Interpretation of Physics Dosimetry Results for Test Reactors, E 706(II)
• ASTM E1018 Standard Guide for Application of ASTM Evaluated Cross Section Data File, Matrix E 706 (IIB)
• ASTM E170 Standard Terminology Relating to Radiation Measurements and Dosimetry
• ASTM E177 Standard Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in ASTM Test Methods
• ASTM E181 Standard Test Methods for Detector Calibration and Analysis of Radionuclides
• ASTM E185 Standard Practice for Conducting Surveillance Tests for Light-Water Cooled Nuclear Power Reactor Vessels, E706 (IF)
• ASTM E261 Standard Practice for Determining Neutron Fluence, Fluence Rate, and Spectra by Radioactivation Techniques
• ASTM E262 Standard Method for Determining Thermal Neutron Reaction and Fluence Rates by Radioactivation Techniques
• ASTM E456 Standard Terminology for Relating to Quality and Statistics
• ASTM E844 Standard Guide for Sensor Set Design and Irradiation for Reactor Surveillance, E 706(IIC)
• ASTM E944 Standard Guide for Application of Neutron Spectrum Adjustment Methods in Reactor Surveillance, (IIA)

ASTM E1297-18 history

• 2018 ASTM E1297-18 Standard Test Method for Measuring Fast-Neutron Reaction Rates by Radioactivation of Niobium
• 2008 ASTM E1297-08(2013) Standard Test Method for Measuring Fast-Neutron Reaction Rates by Radioactivation of Niobium
• 2008 ASTM E1297-08 Standard Test Method for Measuring Fast-Neutron Reaction Rates by Radioactivation of Niobium
• 2002 ASTM E1297-02 Standard Test Method for Measuring Fast-Neutron Reaction Rates by Radioactivation of Niobium
• 1996 ASTM E1297-96 Standard Test Method for Measuring Fast-Neutron Reaction Rates by Radioactivation of Niobium