Gas dynamics models for an oscillating gaseous core fission reactor

Abstract

Two one-dimensional models are developed for the investigation of the gas dynamical behaviour of the fuel gas in a cylindrical gaseous core fission reactor. By numerical and analytical calculations, it is shown that, for the case that a direct energy extraction mechanisn (such as MHD) is not present, increasing density oscillations occur in the gas. Also an estimation is made of the attainable direct energy conversion efficiency, for the case that a direct energy extraction mechanism is present.