JRC issues call for tender for shielded ion mass spectrometer
The European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC) has published an invitation to tender for a shielded secondary ion mass spectrometer (SIMS). The JRC is looking for a shielded SIMS in order to evaluate the radial distribution of fission products and actinide isotopes in spent nuclear fuel. Radiation protection (lead, tungsten, or equivalents) is necessary to enable the personnel to analyse, in complete security, fuel samples with activities up to 75GBq. The radiation dose to which personnel in the service is exposed must in no way exceed the limit specified. Samples must be set up easily in the test chamber with the aid of manipulators and specific tools from a glove box connected to the mass spectrometer, so as to limit radiation contamination. Additionally, the apparatus must be equipped with a device, which, through the use of specific instruments, will enable fuel samples to be removed manually from the test chambers with ease. In order to pick up "La Calhene" containers or equivalent types used for transferring spent fuel samples within the institute, the system for loading samples shall be adapted. This modification shall be made in agreement with the institute's engineers. The apparatus must contain a primary gas- and caesium-ion source, mass spectrometer, vacuum system and optical microscope fitted with a video camera. The following characteristics are required: - A high mass resolution within the context of the exact separation of actinide isotopes; - A high secondary-ion transmission; - An ultra-powerful vacuum system for reaching a low detection limit for hydrogen; - The direct possibility for imaging through secondary ions (direct secondary ion imaging); - Computerized control, including software for the measurements, data acquisition, evaluation and presentation of secondary ion distributions. The apparatus shall also be able to pick up samples in cylindrical supports with a diameter of 25.4mm and height of 19mm. The tender must involve the full system, which includes an SIMS, its equipment, a radiation-protection screen as well as the system for loading samples when "La Calhene" containers or equivalent types are being picked up and training of operating personnel. The contract will be awarded to the technically and economically most advantageous tender in accordance with the specific requirements mentioned in the consultation dossier. For further information, please contact: European Commission, Joint Research Centre Postfach 23 40 D-76125 Karlsruhe (Mr Bier) Fax +49-7247-951597