System Studies on the Fusion-Fission Hybrid Systems and Its Fuel Cycle

Mikhail Shlenskii,Boris Kuteev

doi:10.3390/app10238417

Abstract

This paper is devoted to applications of fusion-fission hybrid systems (FFHS) as a powerful neutron source implementing transmutation of minor actinides (MA: Np, Am, Cm) extracted from the spent nuclear fuel (SNF) of nuclear reactors. Calculations which simulated nuclide kinetics for the metallic fuel containing MA and neutron transport were performed for particular facilities. Three FFHS with fusion power equal to 40 MW are considered in this study: demo, pilot-industrial and industrial reactors. In addition, needs for a fleet of such reactors are assessed as well as future FFHSs’ impact on Russian Nuclear Power System. A system analysis of nuclear energy development in Russia was also performed with the participation of the FFHSs, with the help of the model created at AO “Proryv”. The quantity of MA that would be produced and transmuted in this scenario is estimated. This research shows that by the means of only one hybrid facility it is possible to reduce by 2130 the mass of MA in the Russian power system by about 28%. In the case of the absence of partitioning and transmutation of MA from SNF, 287 t of MA will accumulate in the Russian power system by 2130.

Highlights

IntroductionOne of the most crucial issues for nuclear engineering is to create a closed nuclear fuel cycle that would provide the use of nuclear energy for a long time (more than 1000 years) and improve the safety, ecology and economics of nuclear technology
As can be seen in the presented studies, fusion-fission hybrid systems (FFHS) are a really promising solution for the transmutation of transuranic elements (TRU) that would help to manage the problem of nuclear waste storage
There is a considerable number of studies on the application of FFHSs for minor actinides (MA) transmutation, the majority of them are only at the beginning stage of designing a real facility or have no intention of designing real facilities at all

Summary

Introduction

One of the most crucial issues for nuclear engineering is to create a closed nuclear fuel cycle that would provide the use of nuclear energy for a long time (more than 1000 years) and improve the safety, ecology and economics of nuclear technology. This issue includes the problem of spent nuclear fuel (SNF) and radioactive waste (RW) management. One of the ways to manage MA is to dispose of them in geologic repositories There is another approach where MA are transmuted into lighter nuclides.

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Conclusion