This paper describes the novel implementation of a vacuum-micro-electronic (VME) device configured as a wireless transmitter capable of transmitting, within a nuclear radiation environment, a radio-frequency signal proportional to a voltage input. The VME device discussed in this paper would enable key operating parameters of every fuel assembly in a commercial reactor core to be continuously monitored without adding vessel penetrations and cabling.

The device's frequency and amplitude response to radiation are discussed, and the results of irradiation testing are presented. The results of the irradiation test show that the device described herein can withstand the exposure to a neutron fluence and gamma-ray dose substantially higher than previously achieved.