Measurement of Isfahan heavy water zero-power reactor kinetic parameters using advanced pulsed neutron source method in a near critical state.

The pulsed neutron source (PNS) technique was used to determine the prompt neutron decay constant for two different lattice pitches in the HWZPR heavy water zero power reactor. The results were compared to the variance-to-mean ratio (VTM) method. The neutron mean generation time was also calculated for both pitches, and the results were compared to previous Monte Carlo calculations. The findings of this research can be used as a benchmark nuclear codes to validate kinetic parameters. • Kinetic parameters of a zero-power reactor was studied in different lattice pitches by the pulsed neutron source method. • Prompt neutron decay constant was measured at different subcritical levels. • Critical prompt neutron decay constant extrapolated, modified, and validated with the variance to mean ratio (VTM) method. • Neutron mean generation time was obtained and compared with calculation results. • Effect of moderator to fuel ratio on the kinetic parameters was investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]