Briefing: Introduction of nuclear civil engineering degree

Abstract

The authors propose that a new degree, namely nuclear civil engineering, should be introduced at postgraduate level for better utilisation of civil engineers in nuclear power plant design and construction. At present, both nuclear engineering and civil engineering degrees are offered at graduate and postgraduate levels in numerous renowned universities of the world. However, a civil engineer, even after completion of nuclear engineering at postgraduate level, undertaking an assignment related to nuclear power plant design, may encounter various problems that are not covered in the present curricula. For instance, design of prestressed concrete containment against loads from loss of coolant accidents, various impulsive and impactive loads and mininimum thickness requirements for shielding are some of the core issues in nuclear power plant design. The paper highlights the importance of introduction of a nuclear civil engineering degree at the postgraduate level. In addition, the contents of the proposed coursework are also discussed. Keeping in view the fact that, currently, no such degree is offered in any university around the world, the paper explores useful avenues to human resource development for introducing and expanding nuclear power programmes.