Conceptual design of a high-performance hybrid object for applications of the fast neutron irradiation in MTRs

‎Fast neutron irradiation is one of the most strategic radiation applications of research reactors‎. ‎Usually‎, ‎it is performed around the reactor core containing lower neutron flux‎. ‎In this paper‎, ‎a hybrid object has been introduced and analyzed to enhance irradiating applications of the fast neutrons in the core of a Material Testing Reactor (MTR)‎. ‎The tool includes an old-type low-consumed HEU control fuel element‎, ‎a dry channel‎, ‎and a Cd filter‎. ‎It is supposed to be installed at the internal neutron trap (D4 positions) of TRR core configuration‎. ‎Calculating results are very promising for using the proposed tool to increase neutron fluxes‎, ‎reduce thermal and epi-thermal neutron fluxes‎, ‎and shift the neutron spectrum toward the fast neutron region (hardening effect) at the chosen irradiating location‎. ‎Primary safety parameters are also checked and passed successfully‎. ‎Furthermore‎, ‎there are also some other presented safety items which must be checked carefully and conservatively in order to refabricate and install such a irradiating tool in an in-core location of a MTR‎.