Validation of the Monte Carlo model supporting core conversion of the Portuguese Research Reactor (RPI) for neutron fluence rate determinations

The Monte Carlo code MCNP was used to calculate absolute values of thermal, epithermal and fast neutron fluence rates in the new RPI core using fresh LEU fuel. Discrepancies smaller than 20% were obtained between calculated results and activation foil measurements. A previous knowledge of general characteristics of the neutron energy spectra, provided by the MCNP reactor model itself, has been fundamental to determine the conditions yielding a proper comparison of simulated and measured results. An excellent agreement (6%) was also obtained for the relative neutron fluence rate profiles along the fuel height. The MCNP model of the reactor core was therefore validated for a tri-dimensional determination of neutron fluence rates in the fuel assemblies and neighbouring irradiation positions.