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Quality is key: Investing in advanced nuclear research for tomorrow’s grid
As the energy sector faces mounting pressure to grow at an unprecedented pace while maintaining reliability and affordability, nuclear technology remains an essential component of the long-term solution. Southern Company stands out among U.S. utilities for its proactive role in shaping these next-generation systems—not just as a future customer, but as a hands-on innovator.
MARK NELKIN
Nuclear Science and Engineering | Volume 2 | Number 3 | May 1957 | Pages 373-381
Technical Paper | doi.org/10.13182/NSE57-A25402
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
The thermal spectrum of a beryllium-moderated intermediate assembly is calculated in the approximation of a heavy crystalline moderator. The results are compared to experiment, and the qualitative agreement is found to be good. In the particular case calculated, the temperature dependence of the spectrum is so weak that a straightforward Fermi age calculation is also in good qualitative agreement. The most important uncertainties in the calculation are due to the heterogeneous distribution of neutron absorbing material, and the use of the heavy mass approximation in the presence of strong absorption.