Impact of Fuel Density on Performance and Economy of Research Reactors

International initiatives to create high-density fuels for converting research reactors from HEU to LEU fuels are driving the advancement of research reactor fuel technology. These fuels may provide economic advantages by increasing per-assembly burnup, decreasing the need for assemblies, and improving spent fuel management. This study provides an initial assessment of the impacts on research reactor performance and fuel costs.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 84 pages
Publication date: 30 July 2021
Publisher: IAEA

The advancement of research reactor fuel technology is a dynamic process, propelled by global initiatives aimed at developing high-density fuels to facilitate the transition of research reactors from highly enriched uranium (HEU) to low enriched uranium (LEU) fuels. While these high-density fuels initially incur higher costs, they hold the potential for economic advantages due to their enhanced per-assembly burnup, which reduces the need for procuring additional assemblies and offers greater flexibility in spent fuel management compared to the currently qualified and commercially available LEU silicide fuels. Furthermore, these new fuels are expected to exhibit superior performance characteristics. This publication serves as a preliminary assessment of the effects on research reactor performance and fuel costs resulting from the utilization of high-density fuel. Several case studies are presented and analyzed to elucidate these impacts in detail.

Research reactors play a crucial role in advancing scientific knowledge and technological advancements by providing a controlled environment for conducting research and testing. The use of high-density fuels in research reactors offers several benefits, including increased fuel efficiency, reduced waste generation, and enhanced safety. High-density fuels are typically denser than LEU fuels, which means they can be loaded into research reactors with a smaller volume, reducing the need for costly and space-consuming fuel storage facilities. This not only saves valuable space but also reduces the risk of fuel accidents and spills.

In addition to increased fuel efficiency, high-density fuels also reduce waste generation. Research reactors generate a significant amount of radioactive waste, which can be challenging to dispose of safely and efficiently. By using high-density fuels, researchers can reduce the amount of waste generated per assembly, which helps to minimize the long-term environmental impact of research reactor operations.

Enhanced safety is another benefit of using high-density fuels in research reactors. High-density fuels are typically more stable and less prone to spontaneous combustion or degradation, which reduces the risk of accidents and incidents that can harm personnel and the environment. This not only improves the safety of research reactor operators but also contributes to the overall safety of nuclear energy operations.

Despite the benefits of high-density fuels, there are also challenges associated with their use. One of the primary challenges is the increased cost of high-density fuels compared to LEU fuels. The development and production of high-density fuels require specialized technologies and materials, which can drive up the cost of fuel and reduce the economic viability of research reactor operations.

Another challenge is the need for additional training and expertise to operate research reactors with high-density fuels. Research reactors require specialized knowledge and skills to ensure safe and efficient operation, and the use of high-density fuels may require operators to undergo additional training to familiarize themselves with the new fuel types and their characteristics.

Despite these challenges, the use of high-density fuels in research reactors continues to evolve. International efforts to develop and promote the use of high-density fuels are ongoing, and researchers are working to address the challenges associated with their use to ensure the continued viability of research reactor operations.

In conclusion, the advancement of research reactor fuel technology is driven by international efforts to develop high-density fuels to facilitate the transition from HEU to LEU fuels. While high-density fuels initially incur higher costs, they offer economic benefits through increased fuel efficiency, reduced waste generation, and enhanced safety. The use of high-density fuels in research reactors also contributes to the overall sustainability of nuclear energy operations by reducing waste and improving safety. However, there are challenges associated with their use, including increased costs and the need for additional training and expertise. By continuing to invest in research and development, researchers can overcome these challenges and ensure the continued viability of research reactor operations for years to come.

Weight: 270g
ISBN-13: 9789201203205