Nuclear systems, sensitivity functions design

Many predictive applications of perturbation theory techniques for the design, analysis, and optimization of various nuclear systems, as well as for the evaluation and adjustment of nuclear data, are based on sensitivity functions. Section VI presents the fundamentals of perturbation-based sensitivity studies, describes the origin of sensitivity functions, and discusses several areas of application for sensitivity studies. These include cross-section sensitivity studies and optimization studies which are emerging as important fields for the application of perturbation theory. 

Much work is still required before many of the perturbation theory formulations reviewed and presented here can be implemented in practice. If full benefit is to be drawn from perturbation theory techniques for a wide variety of problems concerned with the design, analysis, and optimization of nuclear systems, computer code systems of the future must include basic and specific modules for calculations based on perturbation theory formulations. The basic modules are intended for the calculation of different sensitivity functions. Specific modules should enable performanee of dilTerent studies sueh as cross-section sensitivity studies, analysis of alterations in the design or operating conditions of nuclear systems, and optimization studies. 

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