Innovative oxide fuels doped with minor actinides for use in fast reactors

Abstract

Research and development of innovative oxide fuels doped with minor actinides for use in fast reactors are underway. Management of minor actinides in a fast reactor fuel cycle is a key technology for successful realization of a sustainable energy supply with a low impact on the environment. Americium-doped oxide fuels are focused on as representative of minor actinides-containing fuel. Two types of fuels were designed and fabrication tests were carried out. Fundamental properties were also investigated. Results can effectively be reflected to establishment of the fast reactor cycle with minor actinides.

A practical fabrication method for the advanced heterogeneous fuel with magnesia containing minor actinides

“…(Pu, Am)O 2-x spheres are homogeneously dispersed in the MgO inert matrix [1][2][3][4]. The content of (Pu, Am)O 2-x is 50 wt%.…”

“…Magnesia (MgO)-based heterogeneous fuel with a high content of minor actinides (MAs) is currently considered as one promising option for the rapid incineration of MAs in a future fast reactor cycle system [1][2][3][4]. An advanced form of heterogeneous fuel, a socalled macro-dispersed type fuel, is considered to be a high-performance form of heterogeneous fuel [1][2][3][4][5][6].…”

“…An advanced form of heterogeneous fuel, a socalled macro-dispersed type fuel, is considered to be a high-performance form of heterogeneous fuel [1][2][3][4][5][6]. It consists of spheres (diameter greater than 100 lm) of an MA oxide host phase dispersed into an inert matrix.…”

“…Furthermore, such a simple process is indispensable for the remote fabrication of fuels containing highly radioactive MAs. To satisfy these needs, a practical fabrication technology for MgO-based macro-dispersed type fuel based on a traditional powder metallurgy is now being developed [1][2][3][4].…”

Chemical Analysis of Americium Samples Irradiated under Fast Neutron Spectra

“…[1][2][3] Post-irradiation examinations have been started to evaluate the irradiation behaviour. 4) The ''SUPERFACT'' 5) experiment was promoted as a typical program to evaluate incineration and transmutation of neptunium (Np) and Am in MOX fuels irradiated in the French fast reactor Phenix.…”