A MCNPX TRIGA RC1Eeperimental channels model for the design of a new neutronic diffraction facility

TRIGA RC-1 Mark II reactor of ENEA Casaccia Research Center reached its first criticality in 1960, with a maximum thermal power of 100 kW. In 1967 it was upgraded at the thermal power of 1 MW.A MCNPX model of the facility has been developed to support experimental measurements and devices installations. The present study is part of an ongoing feasibility study focused on the installation of a new neutron diffractometer. It is focused on the neutronic characterization of two horizontal experimental channels selected as the most suitable to be coupled with the diffraction facility. The channels have been implemented into the TRIGA-RC1 MCNPX model and preliminary results have been obtained about the characteristics of neutron fluxes entering the device. Experimental data regarding flux measurement available at different positions in all channels have been compared with simulated data. The measured and simulated data are in relative agreement with measurements and further work must be addressed in the calibration of the model. However, the results indicates that channel A and TPC fulfill the requirements to host a neutron powder diffraction facility