Parameters optimization in a hybrid system with a gas dynamic trap based neutron source

A task of long-lived transuranic isotopes utilization is considered to be one of the urgent problems for the nuclear reactor technology. Using sub-critical hybrid systems is a possible solution of the problem. Budker Institute of Nuclear Physics SB RAS together with Nuclear Safety Institute RAS is working on a hybrid system with a neutron source based on the gas dynamic trap and sub-critical fuel blanket. This article presents the results obtained from a series of numerical experiments aimed at estimating the optimal system. Particularly, maximum neutron source emission rate has been estimated to reach 1 × 1018–2 × 1018 neutrons/s at the input parameters typical for such a system. Pb–Bi buffer zone impact on integral characteristics of fuel blanket has been considered. Decrease in amount of secondary fission neutrons as the result of buffer zone thickening has been revealed.The codes developed to conduct the investigations are also described in the article. The first one, GENESYS, is a zero-dimensional code aimed at modelling plasma processes in the gas dynamic trap. The second one, NMC (Neutron Monte-Carlo), is a Monte-Carlo particle transport code and is developed as a multipurpose tool for neutron transport calculation.

► GENESYS code was developed to model plasma processes in gas-dynamic mirror devices.
► NMC code was developed for modelling neutron processes in fuel blankets.
► Source's maximum emission intensity was estimated at 2 × 1018 neutrons/s.
► Multiplicity dependence on buffer zone thickness was determined for a MA blanket.