Nuclear Engineering and Technology

Korean Nuclear Society (한국원자력학회)
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FAST REACTOR PHYSICS AND COMPUTATIONAL METHODS

  • Yang, W.S. (Purdue University School of Nuclear Engineering)
  • Received : 2011.03.23
  • Accepted : 2011.12.12
  • Published : 2012.03.25
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Abstract

This paper reviews the fast reactor physics and computational methods. The basic reactor physics specific to fast spectrum reactors are briefly reviewed, focused on fissile material breeding and actinide burning. Design implications and reactivity feedback characteristics are compared between breeder and burner reactors. Some discussions are given to the distinct nuclear characteristics of fast reactors that make the assumptions employed in traditional LWR analysis methods not applicable. Reactor physics analysis codes used for the modeling of fast reactor designs in the U.S. are reviewed. This review covers cross-section generation capabilities, whole-core deterministic (diffusion and transport) and Monte Carlo calculation tools, depletion and fuel cycle analysis codes, perturbation theory codes for reactivity coefficient calculation and cross section sensitivity analysis, and uncertainty analysis codes.

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