Date of Award

3-1991

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering

Department

Department of Engineering Physics

First Advisor

Kirk A. Mathews, PhD

Abstract

The Monte Carlo transport code, MCNP was modified for purposes of two dimensional neutron-photon transport modelling in a variable density atmosphere. Calculations were performed using cylindrical (r, z) geometry and a point isotropic neutron-photon source at an elevation of 40 kilometers. Neutron and photon fluence results were computed using ring detectors for field points at constant range versus source elevation angle and for field points at constant altitude versus radius. Comparisons between the modified and unmodified versions of MCNP showed a decrease in run time by a factor of two was possible. Only a fraction of the spatial cells previously required were used. Results showed streaming of the neutron and photon radiation at very close ranges. Buildup from multiple scattering contributions proved to be the dominant effect at intermediate ranges. Attenuation from successive downscatter in energy was shown to be the dominant effect at ranges greater than about 60 kilometers. Results obtained with MCNP were compared to those obtained with the computer code SMAUG- II, which uses the mass-integral scaling approximation. The comparison showed SMAUG-II to be accurate at points close to the source, but serious errors were encountered at ranges exceeding 9 kilometers as the mass range increased.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-GNE-ENP-91M-6

DTIC Accession Number

ADA238738

Comments

The author's Vita page is omitted

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