An Introduction to the Engineering of Fast Nuclear Reactors

An invaluable resource for both graduate-level engineering students and practising nuclear engineers who want to expand their knowledge of fast nuclear reactors, the reactors of the future. This book is a concise yet comprehensive introduction to all aspects of fast reactor engineering. It covers topics including neutron physics; neutron flux spectra; flux distribution; Doppler and coolant temperature coefficients; the performance of ceramic and metal fuels under irradiation, structural changes, and fission-product migration; the effects of irradiation and corrosion on structural materials, irradiation swelling; heat transfer in the reactor core and its effect on core design; coolants including sodium and lead-bismuth alloy; coolant circuits; pumps; heat exchangers and steam generators; and plant control. The book includes new discussions on lead-alloy and gas coolants, metal fuel, the use of reactors to consume radioactive waste, and accelerator-driven subcritical systems.

• A concise but comprehensive introduction to all aspects of fast reactor engineering - fast reactors are increasingly seen as important to the future development of nuclear power
• Covers not only the familiar type of fast reactor (critical sodium-cooled oxide-fuelled uranium-cycle breeders) but also the alternatives and possible future developments currently of interest (lead or gas coolant, metal or nitride fuel, accelerator-driven reactors, thorium-cycle breeders, and consumers of nuclear waste)
• Benefits from the author's forty years of experience with fast reactors