Core Elements Improvements for Optimization of Radioisotopes Production in an MTR-type Core

Abstract

The primary purpose of research reactors (RRs) is to provide a neutron source for research in natural sciences, industrial processing and nuclear medicine [1]. The latter takes place in 25% [2] (80 facilities) of the research reactors around the world. The most common method for producing radioisotopes is by the neutron activation process. Due to the cosine shape of the flux along the axis of every fuel assemblies (FAs), a limited area of maximal flux makes the activation process of large or multiple samples less efficient. The objective of this study is to analyze two design parameters of MTR-type core components in order to optimize isotope production: (i) FA linear fuel distribution loading [4] [5] [6] and (ii) Irradiation Position body material. The study presents a 3-D MTR fuel calculation using Serpent [7]. Using the parameter improvements in this process, in terms of flattening and maximizing the thermal flux, the production rate doubles while keeping the safety parameters of the fuel thermal-hydraulics properties. This improvement can lead to better gains for society and will also reap financial rewards.