Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The SCALE transport lattice code, Polaris, has been previously developed to generate few-group homogenized cross sections for whole-core nodal diffusion simulators in which the embedded self-shielding method (ESSM) is used for resonance self-shielding calculations to process cross sections. Although the ESSM capability has been very successful in light-water reactor analysis, it may require enhancements in computational efficiency; treatment of spatially dependent resonance self-shielding effects; and handling of interrelated resonance effects among fuel, cladding, and control rod materials. Therefore, this study focuses on improving computational efficiency by using a Dancoff-based Wigner–Seitz approximation combined with a material-based resonance categorization, through which a spatially dependent ESSM capability is developed to accurately estimate self-shielded cross sections inside the fuel. Benchmark results show that the new capability significantly enhances computational efficiency and accuracy for spatially dependent local zones within the fuel and through depletion.
Source: Journal of Nuclear Engineering
DOI: 10.3390/jne7010013
Institution: Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Language: English
Subfield: Aerospace Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,207
Funder: U.S. Department of Energy
OpenAlex ID: W7128006899