Clementine (nuclear Reactor) - Shielding and Support Structure

Shielding and Support Structure

The reactor core was wrapped in a series of neutron reflectors and shielding structures starting with a 15 cm (6 in.) thick cylindrical blanket of natural uranium immediately surrounding the core. This blanket was open at the top and bottom and could be moved up and down. Next was a 15.2 cm (6 in.) thick steel reflector and 10 cm (4 in.) of lead. Finally most of the reactor was surrounded by multiple laminations of steel and boron plastic. This entire assembly was surrounded and supported by a thick concrete shell which provided additional shielding. A number of holes ran through the shielding to provide fast neutrons to the various physics experiments.

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