Viability Of Inert Matrix Fuel In Reducing Plutonium Amounts In Reactors Iaea Tecdoc Series

Viability of Inert Matrix Fuel in Reducing Plutonium Amounts in Reactors. IAEA TECDOC Series

Viability of Inert Matrix Fuel in Reducing Plutonium Amounts in Reactors

Reactors worldwide have produced more than 2000 tonnes of plutonium, contained in spent fuel or as separated forms through reprocessing. Disposition of fissile materials has become a primary concern of nuclear non-proliferation efforts. There is a significant interest in IAEA Member States to develop proliferation resistant nuclear fuel cycles for incineration of plutonium, such as inert matrix fuels (IMFs). This publication reviews the status of potential IMF candidates and describes several identified candidate materials for both fast and thermal reactors some of which have undergone test irradiations and post-irradiation examination. Also discussed are modelling of IMF fuel performance and safety analysis.

Technical Approaches for the Management of Separated Civilian Plutonium

This publication aims to outline credible technical options for managing separated plutonium. There is no attempt to rank or rate any of the options, instead the intent is to inform the reader of the technical merits of the various options and the state of their development. It is primarily focused on Member States that have adopted a closed fuel cycle policy but can also be of value to other Member States, specifically their decision makers and other stakeholders involved in potential future nuclear fuel cycles, by informing them on life cycle options and energy policy.