Fission Spectrum Covariance Matrix and Sensitivity Coefficients for Response Parameter Uncertainty Estimation

This paper discusses the consistent usage of fission spectrum covariance matrices and sensitivity coefficients for response parameter uncertainty estimation. The effects of covariance matrix normalization on response parameter uncertainties are described from a mathematical point of view, along with their inter-relation with the constrained sensitivity coefficients. The numerical precision for practical renormalization of covariance matrices and the impact of the constrained sensitivity coefficients are also discussed by estimating the multiplication factor uncertainties due to fission spectrum uncertainties for a sodium-cooled fast burner core concept.