TRU-Fueled Very High Temperature Reactors for Applications Requiring an Extended Operation With Minimized Control and No Refueling

Abstract

This paper presents an analysis of transuranium nuclide (TRU)-fueled very high temperature reactor (VHTR) systems focusing on applications requiring an extended operation with minimized control and no refueling (single-batch mode). As an example of such applications, international deployment opportunities for grid-appropriate VHTR systems could be mentioned addressing demands for electricity, industrial heat, and co-generation in those regions where minimized servicing is desirable for various reasons. The study is performed for the hexagonal block core concept within the framework of the ongoing U.S. DOE Nuclear Energy Research Initiative project on utilization of higher actinides (TRUs and partitioned minor actinides (MAs)) as a fuel component for extended-life VHTRs. The up-to-date analysis has shown reasonable reactivity swings, core life limits with respect to fast fluences, and criticality.