SEDL / STP / STP782-EB / STP34405S

The U.K. Fast Reactor Materials Programme

Harries, DR
Metallurgy Division, AERE, Harwell, Didcot, Oxon

Standring, J
Springfields Nuclear Power Development Laboratories, Salwick, Preston, Lancs

Barnes, WD
National Nuclear Corporation, Risley, Warrington, Cheshire

Lloyd, GJ
Risley Nuclear Power Development Laboratories, Risley, Warrington, Cheshire

Pages: 21    Published: Jan 1982

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Abstract

The development of sodium cooled fast breeder reactors in the U.K. is briefly reviewed and the points of similarity and of difference in the design and operating conditions of the prototype and commercial demonstration reactors established. The materials selected or under development for fuel element and structural component applications in these reactors are defined and the requirements for achieving high fuel burn-up and for safe and reliable reactor operation discussed. The programmes being implemented to provide the materials data necessary to endorse the requirements are summarised.