Building a dynamic code to simulate new reactor concepts

Innovative nuclear reactor designs have been proposed, such as the Accelerator Driven Systems (ADSs), the “candle” reactors, etc. These reactor designs introduce computational nuclear technology problems the solution of which necessitates a new, global and dynamic computational approach of the system. A continuous feedback procedure must be established between the main inter-related parameters of the system such as the chemical, physical and isotopic composition of the core, the neutron flux distribution and the temperature field. Furthermore, as far as ADSs are concerned, the ability of the computational tool to simulate the nuclear cascade created from the interaction of accelerated protons with the spallation target as well as the produced neutrons, is also required. The new Monte Carlo code ANET (Advanced Neutronics with Evolution and Thermal hydraulic feedback) is being developed based on the GEANT3 High Energy Physics code, aiming to progressively satisfy all the above requirements. A description of the capabilities and methodologies implemented in the present version of ANET is given here, together with some illustrative applications of the code.

► We develop a stochastic neutronic code based on an existing High Energy Physics code.
► The code simulates innovative reactor designs including Accelerator Driven Systems.
► Core materials evolution will be dynamically simulated, including fuel burnup.
► Continuous feedback between the main inter-related parameters will be established.
► A description of the current research development and achievements is also given.