An Innovative High Thermal Conductivity Fuel Design
An Innovative High Thermal Conductivity Fuel Design

Author:

Publisher:

Published: 2009

Total Pages:

ISBN-13:

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Thermal conductivity of the fuel in today's Light Water Reactors, Uranium dioxide, can be improved by incorporating a uniformly distributed heat conducting network of a higher conductivity material, Silicon Carbide. The higher thermal conductivity of SiC along with its other prominent reactor-grade properties makes it a potential material to address some of the related issues when used in UO2 [97% TD]. This ongoing research, in collaboration with the University of Florida, aims to investigate the feasibility and develop a formal methodology of producing the resultant composite oxide fuel. Calculations of effective thermal conductivity of the new fuel as a function of %SiC for certain percentages and as a function of temperature are presented as a preliminary approach. The effective thermal conductivities are obtained at different temperatures from 600K to 1600K. The corresponding polynomial equations for the temperature-dependent thermal conductivities are given based on the simulation results. Heat transfer mechanism in this fuel is explained using a finite volume approach and validated against existing empirical models. FLUENT 6.1.22 was used for thermal conductivity calculations and to estimate reduction in centerline temperatures achievable within such a fuel rod. Later, computer codes COMBINE-PC and VENTURE-PC were deployed to estimate the fuel enrichment required, to maintain the same burnup levels, corresponding to a volume percent addition of SiC.

Innovative Nuclear Fuels
Innovative Nuclear Fuels

Author:

Publisher:

Published: 2009

Total Pages:

ISBN-13:

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To facilitate the discovery and design of innovative nuclear fuels, multi-scale models and simulations are used to predict irradiation effects on the thermal conductivity, oxygen diffusivity, and thermal expansion of oxide fuels. The multi-scale approach is illustrated using results on ceramic fuels with a focus on predictions of point defect concentrations, stoichiometry, and phase stability. The high performance computer simulations include coupled heat transport, diffusion, and thermal expansion, gas bubble formation and temperature evolution in a fuel element consisting of UO2 fuel and metallic cladding. The second part of the talk is dedicated to a discussion of an international strategy for developing advanced, innovative nuclear fuels. Four initiative are proposed to accelerate the discovery and design of new materials: (a) Develop an international pool of experts, (b) Create Institutes for Materials Discovery and Design, (c) Create an International Knowledge base for experimental data, models (mathematical expressions), and simulations (codes) and (d) Organize international workshops and conference sessions. The paper ends with a discussion of existing and emerging international collaborations.

Development of a Robust Tri-carbide Fueled Reactor for Multi-megawatt Space Power and Propulsion Applications
Development of a Robust Tri-carbide Fueled Reactor for Multi-megawatt Space Power and Propulsion Applications

Author: Samim Anghaie

Publisher:

Published: 2004

Total Pages: 32

ISBN-13:

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An innovative reactor core design based on advanced, mixed carbide fuels was analyzed for nuclear space power applications. Solid solution, mixed carbide fuels such as (U, Zr, Nb)c and (U, Zr, Ta)C offer great promise as an advanced high temperature fuel for space power reactors. This study addressed the difficulties of fabricating these solid solution fuels in traditional space reactor forms and developed methods of processing these high temperature fuels to support the fabrication of the innovative square lattice honeycomb (SLHC) fuel design. The design, in addition to better lending itself to net-shape fabrication with these advanced fuels, also permits the development of an entire class of propulsion systems from 25 to 250 kN thrust with hydrogen exit temperatures of 2800 to 3000 K for an Isp of 930 to almost 1000 seconds.

Sodium
Sodium

Author: Ron Legarski

Publisher: SolveForce

Published: 2024-09-19

Total Pages: 786

ISBN-13:

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"Sodium: From Discovery to Modern Energy Applications" is an in-depth exploration of one of the most versatile and vital elements in the periodic table—sodium. This book traces the journey of sodium from its discovery in the early 1800s to its pivotal role in modern industry and cutting-edge energy technologies, including its revolutionary use in Sodium-Cooled Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). Designed for readers interested in science, engineering, and energy innovation, this book delves into sodium's chemical properties, its interactions with other elements, and its applications across a wide range of fields. From industrial manufacturing and agriculture to its use in advanced nuclear reactors, sodium continues to prove itself as a critical player in both historical and modern contexts. Key topics covered include: The Discovery of Sodium: Explore the early scientific breakthroughs that led to the identification and isolation of sodium, setting the stage for its wide-ranging applications. Sodium in Industry and Chemistry: Understand the diverse uses of sodium in industries such as glass manufacturing, metal alloys, and organic chemistry. Sodium in Agriculture and Environmental Science: Learn about sodium’s role in soil chemistry, crop yield, and its impact on sustainable agricultural practices. Sodium as a Coolant in Nuclear Reactors: Dive into the innovative use of sodium in SMRs, where it acts as an efficient and safe coolant in next-generation nuclear power plants. This includes detailed discussions on its role in sodium-cooled fast reactors, advanced safety systems, and its contribution to carbon reduction and energy security. Environmental Impact and Sustainability: Examine the environmental challenges and sustainability measures associated with sodium production, use, and recycling, including its role in renewable energy systems and climate change mitigation. Written by Ron Legarski, a seasoned expert in telecommunications, technology infrastructure, and energy solutions, this book also integrates unique insights into how digital technologies, connectivity, and smart grids are essential in supporting sodium’s modern applications, especially in energy systems like SMRs. Whether you're a scientist, engineer, student, or simply curious about the evolving role of sodium in today’s world, "Sodium: From Discovery to Modern Energy Applications" offers a comprehensive and engaging look at an element that is driving both technological progress and sustainable energy solutions.

Fundamentals of Nuclear Engineering
Fundamentals of Nuclear Engineering

Author: Brent J. Lewis

Publisher: John Wiley & Sons

Published: 2017-03-24

Total Pages: 984

ISBN-13: 1119271541

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Fundamental of Nuclear Engineering is derived from over 25 years of teaching undergraduate and graduate courses on nuclear engineering. The material has been extensively class tested and provides the most comprehensive textbook and reference on the fundamentals of nuclear engineering. It includes a broad range of important areas in the nuclear engineering field; nuclear and atomic theory; nuclear reactor physics, design, control/dynamics, safety and thermal-hydraulics; nuclear fuel engineering; and health physics/radiation protection. It also includes the latest information that is missing in traditional texts, such as space radiation. The aim of the book is to provide a source for upper level undergraduate and graduate students studying nuclear engineering.

Carbon
Carbon

Author: Ron Legarski

Publisher: SolveForce

Published: 2024-09-06

Total Pages: 413

ISBN-13:

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Carbon: From Discovery to Modern Energy Applications offers an in-depth exploration of carbon’s journey from its discovery to its critical role in today’s energy and technology landscape. This comprehensive guide traces the elemental nature of carbon, its historical significance in early civilizations, and its transformative impact during the Industrial Revolution. Delving into modern advancements, the book highlights how carbon is essential in cutting-edge technologies such as lithium-ion batteries, carbon fiber composites, small modular reactors (SMRs), and carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) systems. Written for professionals, students, and anyone with an interest in energy, materials science, and sustainability, this book blends technical detail with practical insights. It covers carbon’s applications in fields like materials science, telecommunications, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing, while also addressing carbon’s role in the climate change debate and its potential for driving sustainable solutions. Authored by telecommunications expert Ron Legarski, Carbon: From Discovery to Modern Energy Applications provides a roadmap for understanding carbon’s past, present, and future significance, offering readers a clear vision of how this extraordinary element will continue to shape our world.

Advanced Reactors with Innovative Fuels
Advanced Reactors with Innovative Fuels

Author: OECD Nuclear Energy Agency

Publisher: Nuclear Energy Agency

Published: 2002

Total Pages: 520

ISBN-13:

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A new generation of nuclear reactor designs is being developed in order to meet the needs of the 21st century. In the short term, the most important objective is to improve competitiveness in the deregulated market. For this purpose evolutionary light water reactors are being developed and promoted actively. In the longer term, other requirements related to long-term sustainability will emerge, including the need to minimise the environmental burden passed on to future generations, the need to establish sustainability of the fuel and the need to minimise stocks of separated plutonium and their accessibility. At this workshop, information on R&D activities for advanced reactor systems was exchanged and research areas in which international co-operation could be strengthened were identified, in particular the roles that could be played by existing experimental facilities and the possible needs for new infrastructure.