Objective
The Project addresses the viability & performance of the Very High Temperature Reactor (VHTR). This innovative system is not only meant at competitive & safe power generation, but also at industrial process heat supply, in particular for hydrogen production. It offers significant advantages with its inherent safety features and the related simplification of the system, its robust fuel without significant radioactive release, its high efficiency and use of any fissile/fertile material. explored to achieve the challenging performances required for VHTR (900-1000°C, up to 200 GWd/t). The selection and qualification of materials for very high temperature components, graphite internals and vessel is a key area of the Project. The critical components (in particular the intermediate heat exchanger) are developed. The demonstration of the unique robustness of the fuel is extended to higher temperature & burn-up. The fabrication of advanced fuel with higher performances is tested. The irradiated fuel behaviour in disposal conditions is studied. Computer tools for reactor physics, safety analysis and fuel behaviour are qualified through comparison with experimental data including those resulting from tests planned in the Project. Moreover the modelling of the fuel irradiation behaviour is improved. A safety approach adapted to the specific features of modular VHTR is elaborated. Finally an evaluation of the viability & performance of the whole system is achieved.
This programme has been set-up to compliment and support European national VHTR programmes and to contribute to the international effort on GENERATION IV VHTR projects. As the Project addresses issues raising major concerns for the future (energy and fresh water supply, climate change, natural resource preservation), it will pay special attention to education & communication.
Fields of science
- engineering and technologyelectrical engineering, electronic engineering, information engineeringelectrical engineeringpower engineeringelectric power generation
- natural sciencesearth and related environmental sciencesatmospheric sciencesclimatologyclimatic changes
- engineering and technologyenvironmental engineeringenergy and fuelsrenewable energyhydrogen energy
Topic(s)
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EURATOMCALL2004-FIXEDDEADLINE
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Funding Scheme
IP - Integrated ProjectCoordinator
PARIS LA DEFENSE
France
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Participants (36)
BRUSSELS
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PB 1160 JUELICH
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KNUTSFORD - CHESHIRE
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HOOK
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AIGUEBLANCHE
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GENOVA
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ROMA
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