On the suitability of liquid semiconductors for resistance thermometry in nuclear reactors

Abstract

Liquid semiconductors are considered for use as temperature measuring elements in nuclear reactors. Several possible compositions in the system As-S-Se-Te-Ge have been studied. They are liquid above about 300°C, have temperature coefficients of resistivity of 1 to 5% per degC between 250 and 675°C and show negligible tendencies to devitrification. Irradiation tests have been carried out on both the materials themselves and on experimental thermistors in order to assess their susceptibility to γ-ray induced photoconductivity and fast neutron damage, with encouraging results. Possible temperature mis-indications due to transmutation effects and local gamma heating are shown to be small and calculable.