The Performance Prediction Package (PPP) is a software suite for generating radiation transport results, or leveraging existing transport results, to produce synthetic emission tomography measurements of spent nuclear fuel assemblies. Such synthetic data can be used to mimic specific measurements, and to systematically investigate detection capabilities. Possible uses for the tool include:
• Instrument design
• Predictive evaluation of observables prior to an inspection visit
• Post-measurement assessment of measured data
• Evaluation of unusual cases – closed containers with anomalous objects
• Sensitivity studies for planning inspections
• Sensitivity studies for diversion scenarios
• Evaluation of analysis methods
A scenario is defined with an assembly type, burnup, and cooling time; as well as assembly rotation angle and position relative to the PGET instrument. Pin-to-pin activity variations or a burnup gradient may be present, but in an inspection scenario these are unlikely to be specified. The measurement will specify a measurement time and a particular detector for detector response, and an optional empirical correction can further adjust the model to better mimic the measurement. The goal is to detect missing pins, or burnup anomalies consistent with a pin substituted with a fresh pin after partial burnup.