Use of thorium in Fast Reactors (FR) is gaining consideration in the scientific community thanks to its potential benefits in terms of waste management. The present paper investigates the performance of Th in three FRs: a TRU-burner sodium-cooled FR, an iso- breeder lead-cooled FR and a fast-spectrum Molten Salt Reactor (MSR). The study confirms the relatively low actinide radiotoxicity generated by Th fuel in a closed cycle that could result beneficial to waste management. In addition, notably improved safety parameters are generally observed, which in turn allows increasing the TRU-burning rate while complying with safety requirements. The MSR emerges as the most promising option from the safety features standpoint and thanks to the unique flexibility fostered by a liquid fuel.

Thorium-based Fast Reactors: Potential Benefits and Challenges

FIORINA, CARLO;CAMMI, ANTONIO;LUZZI, LELIO;RICOTTI, MARCO ENRICO;
2012-01-01

Abstract

Use of thorium in Fast Reactors (FR) is gaining consideration in the scientific community thanks to its potential benefits in terms of waste management. The present paper investigates the performance of Th in three FRs: a TRU-burner sodium-cooled FR, an iso- breeder lead-cooled FR and a fast-spectrum Molten Salt Reactor (MSR). The study confirms the relatively low actinide radiotoxicity generated by Th fuel in a closed cycle that could result beneficial to waste management. In addition, notably improved safety parameters are generally observed, which in turn allows increasing the TRU-burning rate while complying with safety requirements. The MSR emerges as the most promising option from the safety features standpoint and thanks to the unique flexibility fostered by a liquid fuel.
2012
Proceedings of the 21st International Conference Nuclear Energy for New Europe (NENE 2012)
9789616207355
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11311/706322
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