Massimo Salvatores: Integral experiments and their use for the validation of nuclear data and the neutronic design of advanced nuclear systems

Abstract

Among the many domains of reactor physics on which Massimo Salvatores gave his considerable contributions, he was particularly passionate about integral experiments. In this paper, we make a review of selected experimental campaigns among the numerous ones he has promoted, conceived, designed, directed, or analyzed. They have been regrouped in a temporal sequence corresponding to the different periods of Massimo's career, which exceeded 50 years. When possible, for each of the experiments we provide a brief description, the goal for which it was conceived and carried out, and the practical impact on validation and design improvement. Finally, the conclusions offer thoughts and suggestions for the future of the integral experiments and a possible way of honoring the invaluable legacy that Massimo Salvatores has left to us.