Proposal to reload using MOX weapons grade in a BWR reactor. (November 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hernandez, Hector; Castillo, Rogelio
• Is Part Of: Annals of nuclear energy. Volume 109(2017:Nov.)
• Page Start: 451
• Page End: 457
• Publication Date: 2017-11
• Subjects: MOX fuel -- Plutonium weapons grade -- BWR reload options; Nuclear energy -- Periodicals; Nuclear engineering -- Periodicals; 621.4805
• DOI: 10.1016/j.anucene.2017.05.060
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-4549

Abstract

Highlights: Evaluate the steady state of a BWR in three fuel reload schemes, using UO2 and MOX weapons grade. Evaluate the two AOO during normal operation of BWR reactor. Propose lattice design for MOX assembly to use in BWRs as reload option. Abstract: Proposal of reloading is made to nuclear power plant of 2317 MWth, where MOX fuels are used with plutonium weapons grade. First, it does the analysis of three reloads schemes, which are compared with a reload with uranium oxide fuel taken as a base. The three proposed schemes consist of: a) 44 MOX fuel assemblies and 88 UO2 fuel assemblies; b) 88 MOX fuel assemblies and 44 UO2 fuel assemblies; c) 132 MOX fuel assemblies. The first scheme turns out to be close to base reload, in terms of the cycle length and shutdown margin. Therefore, simulations are performed of two of the most restrictive anticipated operational occurrences take account to reload licensing. Observing, that the behavior is very similar at reload base. Thus, the proposed MOX fuel assembly may be employed within a boiling water reactor, without making modifications to reactor safety.