Two-dimensional time dependent Riemann solvers for neutron transport (Q2566681)

A two-dimensional Riemann solver is developed for the spherical harmonics approximation to the time dependent neutron transport equation. The eigenstructure of the resulting equations is explored, giving insight into both the spherical harmonics approximation and the Riemann solver. The classic Roe-type Riemann solver used here was developed for one-dimensional problems, but it can also be used in multidimensional problems by treating each face of a two-dimensional computation cell in a locally one-dimensional way. Two test problems are used to explore the capabilities of both the Riemann solver and the spherical harmonics approximation. The numerical solution for a simple line source problem is compared to the analytic solution to both the \(P_1\) equation (an approximation taking into account no higher moments than scalar flux and neutron current) and the full transport solution. A lattice problem is used to test the method on a more challenging problem.