Development of a Fuel Performance Model for the Canadian SCWR

Abstract

The development of a finite element model for the Canadian SCWR fuel pellet and clad geometry has begun. An initial test model has been developed using the expected coolant conditions, element linear power and the material properties of UO₂ and 310 stainless steel. This work is to gain insight into the general fuel performance behavior and to establish the modeling requirements for the SCWR fuel. Development work is still ongoing to stabilize the model and input the material properties of the thorium-based ceramic fuel pellets that have been proposed for the SCWR design.