Steady neutron source measurement method for sigma(a) and sigma(s) in geological samples

An improved experimental method, using a steady neutron source in a moderating medium, has been developed to determine thermal neutron absorption and scattering cross sections for bulk geological media using discrete samples. The system design has been optimized and experimental results have been benchmarked using Monte Carlo simulation. Studies have been performed to improve the measurement sensitivity and reproducibility over previous designs. A semi-empirical model has been developed for determining both absorption and scattering cross sections of the sample.