Californium-252

Frontier is a trusted global supplier of neutron sources for nuclear startup rod assemblies. Californium-252 (Cf-252) sources are an essential component within nuclear reactor start up rods to initiate a nuclear fission reaction. The high neutron flux and spontaneous fission of Cf-252 then causes the fission reaction in uranium oxide fuel rods.

Nuclear Source Assembly (NSA)

Startup rods are used to trigger the initial startup chain reaction in a new reactor; however, they can also be used to restart a reactor that has been taken offline. Frontier manufactures Cf-252 sources, non-destructive testing (NDT), antimony-beryllium pellets, and all parts of the startup rod assembly within customers’ specifications while adhering to the highest safety and nuclear industry standards.

Small Modular Reactor Sources

Californium-252

Small modular reactors (SMR) are a growing opportunity in the nuclear energy industry. With a smaller energy output and smaller footprint than traditional reactors, SMRs can be located in areas previously unavailable to nuclear power sources.

Like any reactor, they require a nuclear chain reaction for the startup process, and Cf-252 startup rods are a common choice. Proper neutron radiation shielding with shielding walls are also critical for personnel and public safety. Frontier provides SMR facilities with state-of-the-art startup rod assemblies and custom shielding walls.

Fuel Scanner Sources

Nuclear fuel rods are monitored regularly to determine the enrichment level of the uranium-235 inside. Fuel scanning devices use Cf-252 neutron sources and delayed gamma ray emissions to measure fissile material content and uniformity within the fuel rods. This allows for optimization of reactor performance and energy production.

Antimony-Beryllium (Sb-Be) Pellets

Antimony-Beryllium (Sb-Be) Pellets

These secondary sources of neutron emission are placed within startup rod assemblies to help initiate the nuclear chain reaction. Frontier manufactures cold-pressed pellets to customer-supplied specifications for diameter, length, and width. We can accommodate prototype-to-production volume.