Abstract
The effects of using high density low enriched uranium on the worth of the control rods of a material test research reactor were studied. For this purpose, the low density LEU fuel of an MTR was replaced with high density U–Mo (9w/o) LEU fuels, having uranium densities of 6.57g/cm3, 7.74g/cm3 and 8.90g/cm3. Simulations were carried out to calculate the worth of the control rods at beginning of life. Three control rod materials were investigated: Ag–In–Cd alloy, B4C and Hf. Nuclear reactor analysis codes WIMS-D4 and CITATION were employed to carry out these calculations. It was seen that the control rod worth decreased as the uranium density of fuel increased from 6.57g/cm3 to 8.90g/cm3. The decrease was 10.58%, 9.39% and 9.74% for Ag–Cd–In alloy, B4C and Hf respectively. Even the increase in control rod thickness could not compensate for the decreased worth.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
