Formulation of the Density Eigenvalue Problemin Neutron Transport for Relevant Engineering Applications

A new formulation of the density eigenvalue problem for the neutron transport equation is pre- sented. This formulation is particularly adequate to study the definition of the material composi- tion in the criticality design process of a multiplying system. The method is then applied for the study of classical problems such as the critical moderation ratio and the poison concentration to control the reactor. Some results are presented in one dimensional configuration using the multi- group spherical harmonics approach. This eigenvalue formulation proves to be a convenient and useful way to attain criticality, also for complex, realistic systems.