Evaluation and validation of d-Li cross section data for the IFMIF neutron source term simulation

A completely new evaluation of the d + Li-6.7 interaction cross sections up to 50 MeV has been performed applying a new methodology which takes into account compound nucleus reactions, pre-equilibrium processes, stripping and direct interactions. The evaluated d + Li-6.7 cross section data were prepared in the laboratory frame, stored in standard ENDF-6 data format and processed by the NJOY code system. A series of benchmark calculations was performed with the McDe-Licious code to test the new data evaluations against experimental thick and thin lithium target neutron yield data up to 40 MeV deuteron energy. It was shown that the new d + Li-6.7 cross section data can well reproduce both the thick target neutron yields and differential neutron emission cross sections. Thus there is a clear improvement of the prediction accuracy for the IFMIF neutron source term simulation with the new d + Li-6.7 cross section data evaluations. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.