Book Description
The capture cross section of /sup 238/U was measured using the activation technique and /sup 235/U(n,f) as a reference cross section. Capture events were measured by detection of two prominent ..gamma..-transitions in the decay of the /sup 239/U daughter nuclide, /sup 239/Np, employing a high resolution Ge(Li) detector. The system was calibrated with samples activated in a thermal neutron flux relative to the capture cross section of gold, and with an absolutely calibrated ..cap alpha..-emitter, /sup 243/Am, which decays to /sup 239/Np. Cross section measurements were carried out in the neutron energy range from 30 keV to 3 MeV. Emphasis was on absolute values between 150 keV and 1 MeV where the /sup 238/U(n,..gamma..) cross section and its cross section is small. Background from fission products was found to restrict the accuracy of the measured data at energies > 1.5 MeV.