Title: Neutron irradiation-induced modifications in polyethylene properties within nuclear environments: analysis of shuttles irradiated in the TRIGA Mark II reactor

Authors: Khalid Nabaoui; Abdessamad Didi; Hamid Bounouira; Fouad Taous; Samira Mimount; Hamid Amsil; El Mehdi Alibrahmi; Chakir El Mahjoub; Mohammed Darouich; Hicham Jabri; Iliasse Aarab; Abdelouahab Badague; Abdeslem Rrhioua; Otmane Allaoui

Addresses: LPMS, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra, Morocco ' National Centre for Nuclear Energy, Science and Technology, Rabat, Morocco ' National Centre for Nuclear Energy, Science and Technology, Rabat, Morocco ' National Centre for Nuclear Energy, Science and Technology, Rabat, Morocco ' National Centre for Nuclear Energy, Science and Technology, Rabat, Morocco ' National Centre for Nuclear Energy, Science and Technology, Rabat, Morocco ' LPMS, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra, Morocco ' LPMS, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra, Morocco ' National Centre for Nuclear Energy, Science and Technology, Rabat, Morocco ' National Centre for Nuclear Energy, Science and Technology, Rabat, Morocco ' LPMS, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra, Morocco ' LPMS, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra, Morocco ' Faculty of Sciences, University Mohamed Premier, Oujda, Morocco ' LPMS, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra, Morocco

Abstract: This article explores the consequences of neutron irradiation on the characteristics of polyethylene used as sample shuttles sent for prolonged irradiation (3 hours) in the core of the TRIGA Mark II reactor. The results reveal alterations in the mechanical, thermal and chemical properties of polyethylene following neutron irradiation. Conclusions drawn from two distinct approaches - infrared and X-ray imaging - underscore the importance of understanding the impacts of neutron irradiation on materials intended to be exposed to neutron fluxes. This understanding is crucial to ensuring the safety and durability of these materials.

Keywords: neutron irradiation; polyethylene; shuttles; TRIGA Mark II; infrared; X-ray imaging; neutron fluxes.

DOI: 10.1504/IJNEST.2024.139139

International Journal of Nuclear Energy Science and Technology, 2024 Vol.17 No.1, pp.85 - 97

Published online: 14 Jun 2024 *

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