CRITICALITY MEASUREMENTS ON PLUTONIUM METAL PRELIMINARY TO THE DESIGN OF A MELTING CRUCIBLE

A series of neutron multiplication measurements were made on assemblies of Pu metal (density 15.8 g/cm/sup 3/) in order that a safe melting crucible could be designed for charges of 10 kg or more. Suitable ingot shapes and masses that could be rolled into sheets were determined. Final charge limits must be determined by making in situ measurements with the actual production furnace when the furnace and crucible are compieted. (H.G.G.