A feasibility study of small modular reactor(SMR) power-performance optimisations based on the SMART system

Zhong, Yiming (2022). A feasibility study of small modular reactor(SMR) power-performance optimisations based on the SMART system. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

Small modular reactor's development provides an alternative option for potentially using nuclear power more economically and effectively. SMART is the world's first licensed, integral, small pressurised water reactor. However, it should still be optimised for the UK's energy market. This thesis has used the stochastic method Monte Carlo codes MONK and OpenMC to investigate the neutronic related behaviours and assess the proposed optimisations. The numerical models based on both codes have been validated and verified, especially to the open-source code OpenMC. The neutron transport simulation and depletion calculation results show that a beryllium-based reflector material would significantly improve fuel assemblies' utilisation rate at the core edge area. This would give higher power output and reduce the frequency of reactor shutdown and refuelling. In addition to the beryllium oxide reflector, three types of variant fuel layout were designed. They respectively occupy 57,44,28 high enrichment fuel assemblies at different positions. This thesis then proposes two hypothetical construction paths to the staggered build of a giga-watt scale,10 SMART unit power station by combining and switching the core layout. Both paths could self-sustain the reloading fuels and, most importantly, decrease the demand for fresh fuel in every refuelling period.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):