0 - Introduction to nuclear power technology

Abstract

The chapter first includes a brief survey of the history of nuclear physics, then the current status of world nuclear power is presented. Nuclear physics basics are explained, with special attention given to neutrons—how they can be produced; nuclear reactions using them, such as radiation capturing; elastic and non-elastic scattering; and finally fission chain reaction. Self-supported fission chain reaction is considered as well as conditions required and its main operation principles. There is a brief introduction to reactor theory and practice with an explanation of the main features of nuclear power, such as enormous radioactivity and power density concentrated in a nuclei; inability to burn all nuclear fuel loaded and thus a requirement to have reactivity margins with reliable methods of compensation; decay heat and how it can be transferred; and an inability for instant reactor shutdown. Many examples are given with analogies to thermal power. Spent nuclear fuel is considered with requirements of its isolation, special treatment, and reprocessing. Furthermore, all listed features of nuclear technology are considered in detail, and their inevitability and influence on the design of nuclear reactors is shown as well. Finally, nuclear fuel and nuclear fuel cycle are considered as well.