Non-linearity assessment of neutron detection systems using zero-power reactor transients.

A new method for neutron detection system non-linearity assessment and correction is proposed and was tested at the VR-1 reactor. It is based on the known behaviour of a zero-power nuclear reactor during the asymptotic positive period, which is used as a source of a true (non-linearity unaffected) signal for detection system non-linearity correction. The proposed method can determine the non-linearity correction continuously for a wide range of count rates and does not require additional equipment but the detection line for which the non-linearity effect is to be evaluated.