Masters Theses
Abstract
"The use of isotopes to include radioactive waste products to reduce the neutron-induced activity of an underground nuclear explosion and its application in the field of geothermal power stimulation is discussed. A shield composed of selected isotopes surrounding a fusion device will capture excess neutrons producing isotopes with short half-lives. Subsequent rapid decay will prolong the high temperature in the vicinity of the explosion and decrease the activity. Long-lived isotopes created by neutron capture in the host rock would be minimized. The investigation is conducted for strontium-90, cesium-137, cerium-144, technetium-99, rhodium-103 and -105. Of these, the first three appear to be presently unacceptable due to their physical properties and restrictions imposed during the investigation. Rhodium-105 is unacceptable due to its short half-life. The remaining two were determined to be acceptable although comparatively expensive. Recommendations are proposed to further study this concept for the disposal of radioactive waste as well as power production"--Abstract, page ii.
Advisor(s)
Rollins, Ronald R.
Committee Member(s)
Bolon, Albert E., 1939-2006
Rupert, Gerald B., 1930-2016
Department(s)
Nuclear Engineering and Radiation Science
Degree Name
M.S. in Nuclear Engineering
Publisher
University of Missouri--Rolla
Publication Date
1972
Pagination
vi, 37 pages
Rights
© 1972 Nathaniel Fred Colby, All rights reserved.
Document Type
Thesis - Open Access
File Type
text
Language
English
Subject Headings
Radioactive waste disposal
Rhodium -- Isotopes
Technetium -- Isotopes
Underground nuclear explosions
Thesis Number
T 2713
Print OCLC #
6032738
Electronic OCLC #
882927570
Link to Catalog Record
Recommended Citation
Colby, Nathaniel Fred, "Use of isotopes to reduce neutron-induced radioactivity and augment thermal quality of the environment of an underground nuclear explosion" (1972). Masters Theses. 5056.
https://scholarsmine.mst.edu/masters_theses/5056
