Accelerated Decay of Radioisotopes
Abstract
Radioisotopes have energy densities up tole9 J/g, whereas chemical-bonds typically store energies less than 1e4 J/g. Energy density is only a necessary condition for usefulness as an energetic material. Detailed here is the final report of a search for novel mechanisms for the rapid and controllable release of nuclear energy within radioisotopes. In particular, the focus of this work was to theoretically, numerically, and experimentally quantify the cross-sections or nuclear reactions induced by heavyions or energetic neutrons. Radioisotopes were studied which are energy-rich ( le9 J/g) and are more abundant or naturally occurring with half-lives up to billions of years. The nuclear reaction cross sections were quantified by changes in the normal radioactive decay rate ("bum-up") or measuring the presence of a disturbed secular equilibrium ("enhanced secondary decay").
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA571478
Entities
People
- Bruce V. Weber
- J. C. Zier
- J. P. Apruzese
- J. Seely
- Joseph W. Schumer
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory