Photofission of Actinides with Linearly Polarized Photons

Idaho State University and the Idaho Accelerator Center are developing a polarized photon facility in the 10 MeV region using the off axis bremsstrahlungtechnique. Initial tests have been performed with the aim of using the high analyzing power of the photodisintegrationof the deuteron to measure the beam polarization. A program is currently underway to measure the potential angular asymmetries of neutrons arising from the angular distribution of the fission fragments from photofissionwith linearly polarized photons. In this paper, we describe the Idaho State University Polarized Photon Facility, present results of commissioning runs, and describe potential application of polarized photofissionin detecting actinidesfor homeland securityand safeguards applications.