First Principles Study of Thermal Conductivity of Nuclear Fuel Materials

Abstract

The recent nuclear accident in Fukushima clearly illustrates the risks associated with the present design of reactors based on pure uranium oxide fuel and justifies research towards Accident Tolerant Fuel (ATF). ATF’s are fuels with enhanced thermal conductivity, which can withstand the loss of coolant for a long time by allowing faster dissipation of heat, thus lowering the centerline temperature and preventing the melting of the fuel. The objective of this study is to analyze the thermal properties of urania and thoria fuel composites in order to improve thermal conductivity and propose safer fuel for present and future nuclear reactors.