Measurement of neutron spectrum parameters for NAA irradiation holes in the Jordan research and training reactor

Three irradiation holes coupled to a pneumatic transfer system were installed for neutron activation analysis in the Jordan Research and Training Reactor (JRTR), which is the first research reactor in Jordan. To perform instrumental neutron activation analysis, neutron spectrum parameters, such as thermal neutron flux, α and f for the irradiation holes, should be measured. The Cd-ratio method was applied for the determination of the aforementioned parameters. For this purpose, 0.1% Au–Al wires and Zr foils were irradiated with and without Cd-cover, and the Cd ratios were determined for Au-198, Zr-95, and Zr-97/Nb-97m nuclides. Then, the parameters were calculated and determined at three irradiation holes.