Final report on improved uranium utilization in PWRs

Abstract

This is the final summary progress report on a research program carried out within the MIT Energy Laboratory/Nuclear Engineering Department under the US Department of Energy's program to increase the effectiveness of uranium utilization in light water reactors on the once-through fuel cycle. Two major themes, methodology and applications, characterize the research. A simple built accurate set of algorithms, designated as "the linear reactivity method" were developed to permit self-consistent evaluations of a broad spectrum of changes in core design and fuel management tactics. More than a dozen suggested improvements were then evaluated, focusing primarily on retrofittable modifications and pressurized water reactors. In common with the findings of many other investigators, high burnup and routine end-of-cycle coastdown were identified as preferred options.