Reactor core power measurement using Cherenkov radiation and its application in Tehran Research Reactor

Cherenkov radiation is a process that could be used as an extra channel for power measurement to enhance redundancy and diversity of a reactor. This is especially easy to establish in a pool type research reactor. A simple photo diode array is used in Tehran Research Reactor to measure and display power in parallel with the existing conventional detectors. Experimental measurements on this channel showed that a good linearity exists above 100 kW range. The system has been in use for more than a year and has shown reliability and precision. Nevertheless, the system is subject to further modifications, in particular for application to lower power ranges.