Genetic Algorithms - a New Technique for Solving the Neutron Spectrum Unfolding Problem
Abstract
A new technique utilizing genetic algorithms has been applied to the Bonner sphere neutron spectrum unfolding problem. Genetic algorithms are part of a relatively new field of `evolutionary' solution techniques that mimic living systems with computer-simulated `chromosome' solutions. Solutions mate and mutate to create better solutions. Several benchmark problems, considered representative of radiation protection environments, have been evaluated using the newly developed UMRGA code which implements the genetic algorithm unfolding technique. The results are compared with results from other well-established unfolding codes. The genetic algorithm technique works remarkably well and produces solutions with relatively high spectral qualities. UMRGA appears to be a superior technique in the absence of a priori data - it does not rely on `lucky' guesses of input spectra. Calculated personnel doses associated with the unfolded spectra match benchmark values within a few percent.
Recommended Citation
D. W. Freeman et al., "Genetic Algorithms - a New Technique for Solving the Neutron Spectrum Unfolding Problem," Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research, Section A: Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment, vol. 425, no. 3, pp. 549 - 576, Elsevier, Apr 1999.
The definitive version is available at https://doi.org/10.1016/S0168-9002(98)01427-2
Department(s)
Nuclear Engineering and Radiation Science
International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)
0168-9002
Document Type
Article - Journal
Document Version
Citation
File Type
text
Language(s)
English
Rights
© 2024 Elsevier, All rights reserved.
Publication Date
11 Apr 1999
