Abstract
The effects of re-enriching and multi-recycling reprocessed uranium (RepU) from the spent nuclear fuel of light water reactors on the proliferation resistance (PR) of Pu and U are studied. The presence of 236U and 238Pu enhances the PR of multi-recycled RepU. The 236U/235U ratio of RepU varies from 0.4 to 1.2, depending on the initial 235U enrichment and fuel burnup. 236U is co-enriched while re-enriching 235U in RepU. Based on the centrifuge enrichment data, the enrichment coefficient of 236U (α236), defined as 236U/235U ratio after and before enrichment, is 0.703, on average. The α236 value is utilized in a simple model to estimate the attainable maximum possible 235U enrichment for multi-recycled RepU. Estimations showed an increase in the PR of multi-recycled and re-enriched RepU, which was confirmed by matched-abundance ratio cascade model. The PR of Pu is enhanced in each recycle due to the increased production of 238Pu from 236U.
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 callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
