The bulk shielding benchmark experiment at the Frascati Neutron Generator (FNG)

In the design of next-step fusion devices such as NET/ITER the nuclear performance of shielding blankets is of key importance in terms of nuclear heating of superconducting magnets and radiation damage. In the framework of the European Fusion Technology Program, ENEA Frascati and CEA Cadarache in collaboration performed a bulk shielding benchmark experiment using the 14 MeV Frascati Neutron Generator (FNG), aimed at obtaining accurate experimental data for improving the nuclear database and methods used in shielding designs. The experiment consisted of the irradiation of a stainless steel block by 14 MeV neutrons. The neutron reaction rates at various depths inside the block have been measured using fission chambers and activation foils characterized by different energy response ranges. The experimental results have been compared with numerical results calculated using both Sn and Monte Carlo transport codes and the cross-section library eff.1 (European Fusion File).