The Optimization of Thorium Content in a 54-Element Fuel Bundle for use in a CANDU-SCWR

Abstract

A new 54-element fuel bundle design has been proposed for use in a Supercritical Water-Cooled Reactor, a conceptual evolution of existing CANDU® reactors. Pursuant to the goals of the Generation IV International Forum, specifically regarding advancement in fuel cycles, the feasibility of optimizing the thorium content within each ring of fuel elements has been studied. 864 unique permutations of thorium and uranium content were modeled with WIMS-AECL, and the results were analyzed using non-parametric statistical methods. Key findings include that discharge burnup and coolant void reactivity are inversely related to the total thorium content in the bundle, and that the maximum linear rating and form factor are inversely related to the thorium content in the outermost ring of fuel elements.