EU 3 Physics of Nuclear Reactors GEN - 5PUGPRN3

Goal(s)

Reactor kinetics & dynamics
This course provides an introduction to reactor kinetics and dynamics. The main goal is to offer the theoretical foundations required to understand the neutron behavior of a reactor: (a) short-term, during normal or accidental transients, and (b) medium-term, during continuous reactor operation. This course is taught in French.

Reactor operation

Understand the links between physics, reactor design and actual reactor operation procedures used to produce nuclear energy safely

Content(s)

Reactor kinetics & dynamics
Chapter 1 – Neutronics Review:
General concepts. Multiplication factor. Four-factor formula. Neutron diffusion equation.

Chapter 2 – Reactor Kinetics Concepts:
Fundamental mode. Mean neutron lifetime and generation time. Amplification factor. Prompt and delayed neutrons. Prompt subcritical reactor. Prompt jump. Reactor period. Reactivity.

Chapter 3 – Point Kinetics Equations:
Derivation of point kinetics equations. In-hour equation. Laplace transform solution. Feedback effects.

Chapter 4 – Reactor Dynamics:
Effect of fuel depletion on reactivity. Poisoning by fission products. Boron control. Doppler effect. Moderator density effect. Introduction to perturbation theory.

Reactor operation
Fuel management
Operations of Technical Specifications
Nuclear reactors' operation modes

Nuclear Reactor Physics 1 and 2
Nuclear Physics 1
Nuclear Instrumentation 2

Test

Reactor kinetics & dynamics: Two-hour written examination. Students are permitted one handwritten double-sided A4 sheet and a calculator. The same conditions apply for the second examination session.

Additional Information

Bibliography

Reactor kinetics & dynamics
[1] Nuclear reactor Analysis, Henry.
[2] Introduction to Nuclear Engineering, Lamarsh.
[3] Nuclear Reactor Analysis, Duderstadt.
[4] Introductory Nuclear Reactor Dynamics, K Ott and R. Neuhold.