Abstract:
The invention relates to nuclear energy based on the use of thorium as a nuclear fuel. Said invention makes it possible to efficiently control a nuclear reactor by modifying (shifting) a neutron energy spectrum in the active zone of the nuclear reactor, extend the service time of the nuclear reactor to 30-50 years with a single charging of nuclear fuel, practically stop the production of plutonium and other transuranic elements, exclude a sequential radiochemical transformation of spent nuclear fuel (SNF), thereby excluding any external transportation of the SNF and to significantly improve the ecological safety of nuclear energy. Control of the thorium nuclear reactor is carried out by modifying the neutron energy spectrum in the active zone of the reactor by supplying neutron decelerators in the gaseous form thereof at a controlled pressure ranging from a normal value to one hundred and more atmospheres to fuel elements. The inventive fuel assembly for thorium reactors comprises the fuel elements and is provided with a central distributor and/or a peripheral collector for supplying the gaseous neutron decelerators.
Abstract:
A dynamic neutron reflector assembly for a "breed-and-burn" fast reactor incrementally adjusts neutron spectrum and reactivity in a reactor core. The composition of materials in the dynamic neutron reflector may be adjusted to change neutron reflectivity levels, or to introduce neutron moderating or absorption characteristics. The dynamic neutron reflector may contain a flowing reflecting liquid of adjustable volume and/or density. Submergible members may be selectively inserted into the flowing reflecting liquid to alter its volume and introduce other neutron modifying effects such as moderation or absorption. Selective insertion of the submergible members allows for concentration of the neutron modifying effects in a selected portion of the reactor core. The flowing reflecting liquid may also act as a secondary coolant circuit by exchanging heat with the molten fuel salt.