The UKAEA’s Applied Radiation Technology (ART) group is a part of the Fusion Technology division. Our team possesses world-leading expertise in radiation modelling, measurement, and analysis, honed through decades of experience. We have worked directly with fusion machines like the Joint European Torus (JET) and the Mega-Amp Spherical Tokamak Upgrade (MAST-U), collaborated on future fusion machines like ITER and DEMO (through EUROfusion), and supported development within the private industry and adjacent sectors. This page describes some of the recent deployments of our modelling, measurement, and analysis capabilities for benchmarking and independent review. Specifications of our measurement capabilities can be found on the RADLab page.
Here’s how ART’s capabilities can empower your research and development:
Nuclear Benchmarking: Refining Simulation Predictions
Testing material performance in relevant nuclear environments is essential for validation and reducing uncertainties associated with modelling, this might include the shielding performance, comparison of standard and low-activation materials, and the production of tritium. ART plays a leading role in nuclear benchmarking and our experience allows us to:
- Design experimental setups from modelling outputs
- Use our networks with experimental nuclear facilities around the world to assess, coordinate and apply for access
- Support with setup and data collection throughout the benchmarking experiments
- Support with analysis following the experiments to validate nuclear performance
In a recent benchmark experiment, the ART group were leading an assessment to compare the shielding effectiveness of tungsten and Densimet using layers of activation foils and 14 MeV neutrons produced at the Frascati Neutron Generator in Italy. This experiment has highlighted interesting discrepancies between calculated and experimentally measured activities, particularly towards the back of the mock-up which require further investigation to ensure its shielding performance can be accurately predicted.
This service is ideal for researchers at the design stage of R&D looking to make key design choices and seeking to increase stakeholder confidence.
Independent Validation: Building Trust in Your Results
Fusion experiments rely on complex diagnostics and data analysis. The ART group provides independent validation using neutron and gamma diagnostics to foster confidence in your R&D. Our experience in radiation modelling and measurements allows us to:
- Model detector configuration and response
- Advise on the optimal number and type of diagnostics for a given application
- Support the calibration of detectors by advising on methodology and analysis procedure
- Analyse and interpret experimental data to validate results
An example of this is our work with First Light Fusion in 2022. We confirmed the production of neutrons consistent with fusion through independent modelling of their detector setup, observation of the measurement procedure and data analysis (FLF announcement).
This service is ideal for researchers at the commissioning stage of R&D seeking trusted validation of neutron production to attract stakeholder investment and progress through R&D milestones.
Diagnostic Solutions: Tailored Tools for Precise Measurements
The ART group operates the Radiological Assay and Detection Lab (RADLab) which houses the ADRIANA UKAEA equipment in addition to a suite of neutron and gamma diagnostics. Beyond nuclear measurement services, we collaborate with researchers to develop specialised diagnostic solutions:
A recent example involved the Passive Neutron Spectrometer (PNS). ART developed this instrument to measure small neutron fields during crucial commissioning phases and determine workplace radiation levels for personnel safety. The PNS has been characterised and was recently deployed to JET for the final DTE3 campaign to support a project in collaboration with CERN to investigate the effect of fusion neutron environments on electronics, specifically researching Single Event Effects.
This service is ideal for many R&D stages and might be of particular interest to researchers with a view to commissioning and operational stages of R&D, as well as decommissioning.
Radiation Environment Modelling: Predicting the Nuclear Performance for Fusion Devices
The radiation environment is a key design driver for fusion reactors. ART offers advanced capabilities in radiation environment modelling throughout the lifecycle of a fusion device, from concept design right through to decommissioning:
Nuclear responses: We can predict various responses in and around fusion devices, including:
- Particle flux
- Dose rates
- Nuclear heating
- Tritium production
- Material damage
- Gas production
- Material activation
- Shutdown dose rates
- Radiological waste generation
- Detector responses
Concept design simulations: We have methods to create and assess parametric neutronics models of fusion devices, speeding up the concept down-selection process.
High-fidelity simulations: Once detailed designs are available, we create detailed models of complex fusion devices to predict accurate nuclear responses.
ART has extensive experience supporting projects like ITER. We developed high-fidelity particle transport models for ITER components, systems, and entire machine sectors. These models were used to estimate both operational and off-load radiation responses, informing design decisions and ultimately underpinning ITER’s safety case.
This service is ideal at all stages of the R&D lifecycle from conception to decommissioning and has particular value at the design optimisation stage.
The UKAEA’s Applied Radiation Technology group offers a comprehensive suite of services to support your fusion research endeavours. Our expertise in independent validation, nuclear benchmarking, diagnostic development, and radiation environment modelling can help you achieve key milestones and accelerate progress towards a clean, sustainable fusion energy future.
Contact our team today to discuss your specific needs.
Chantal Shand
ART Group Leader
chantal.shand@ukaea.uk
