Interpretation of Coherence Function Measurements in Zero-Power Coupled-Core Reactors

New techniques for inferring several reactor kinetic parameters from frequency-domain noise analysis measurements in coupled-core reactors are developed and utilized. These parameters are the eigenvalue separation, delayed-neutron fraction, and, independently, the prompt-neutron lifetime. Reactor characteristics and detector placement criteria necessary for obtaining the parameters are discussed. Comparison with other time-domain noise techniques is undertaken and the merits and shortcomings of each are reviewed.