Gamma spectrometry of coolant lines of KAMINI reactor

Abstract

Gamma spectrometry of the KAMINI reactor coolant lines at the selected spots/locations was carried out during 20kWt power and shutdown using portable spectrometers such as RIIDEye-X, RayMon (Cadmium Zinc Telluride), and hyper pure germanium.133Xe (81 keV),85m Kr (150 keV), and 135Xe (250 keV) isotopes could be identified. The spectra results did not indicate the presence of internal contamination due to any corrosion activation products such as 56Mn, 59Fe, 60Co, and fission products. The gamma radiation level observed during reactor power on the selected locations is only due to the fission product noble gases (FPNGs) and their short-lived radionuclides 88Rb and 138Cs generated and not any pipeline internal contamination.137Cs and trace quantities of 60Co were identified in the mixed bed regenerated liquid. The presence of 137Cs could be attributed due to the tramp fuel fissions.