Neutron induced fission of 237Np – status, challenges and opportunities

Nowadays, there is an increased interest in a complete study of the neutron-induced fission of 237Np. This is due to the need of accurate and reliable nuclear data for nuclear science and technology. 237Np is generated (and accumulated) in the nuclear reactor core during reactor operation. As one of the most abundant long-lived isotopes in spent fuel (“waste”), the incineration of 237Np becomes an important issue. One scenario for burning of 237Np and other radio-toxic minor actinides suggests they are to be mixed into the fuel of future fast-neutron reactors, employing the so-called transmutation and partitioning technology. For testing present fission models, which are at the basis of new generation nuclear reactor developments, highly accurate and detailed neutroninduced nuclear reaction data is needed. However, the EXFOR nuclear database for 237Np on neutron-induced capture and fission cross-section as well as on the characteristics of capture and fission resonance parameters has not been updated for decades.JRC.G.2-Standards for Nuclear Safety, Security and Safeguard