Estimating the neutron component of radiation properties of the IVG.1M research reactor irradiated low-enriched fuel

Safe irradiated nuclear fuel (INF) storage of research reactors is ensured by solving issues of protection against γ-irradiation while the neutron component is usually without consideration due to significantly lower intensity. Regarding the low-enriched composite uranium fuel of the IVG.1M reactor that is characterized by a set of elements with low and mean atomic weight where reaction is possible (α, n), evaluation of the neutron component is an indispensable procedure for ensuring radiation safety INF storage. This research suggests a method for neutron component calculation of radiation properties of fresh and irradiated fuel of the IVG.1M reactor, the α-n-component was evaluated. The research results will be useful when choosing a technology for INF storage and for analysis of feasibility to use neutron irradiation with a purpose to control fuel burnout. •Neutronic model of the IVG.1M reactor core with low-enriched composite uranium fuel was created.•Nuclide composition evolution of the researched nuclear reactor was calculated.•Results of a neutron component modeling of the radiation properties of fresh and irradiated nuclear fuel (INF) was presented.•Research results will be useful when choosing INF storage technology of conventional and research reactors.