Fuel Cycle for ARC-100 Commercial Demonstration at the Point Lepreau Nuclear Site in New Brunswick

Abstract

ARC Clean Technology’s 100 MWe sodium-cooled fast reactor is a Generation IV advanced Small Modular Reactor leveraging the proven prototype experience of Experimental Breeder Reactor II (EBR-II) with modern design improvements to meet industry and public expectations for nuclear power generation in a net-zero economy. The ARC-100 core assemblies are comprised of sodium- bonded U-10Zr metallic fuel pins which provide the foundation of its inherent, walk-away safety. Metallic fuel is a mature technology with no further need for in-reactor or R&D activities prior to a commercial demonstration unit based on the extensive operations at EBR-II and the Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF). The ARC-100 can confidently employ proven fuel technology to operate with a 20-year fuel cycle, reducing complexity and operational costs. New Brunswick Power has chosen to partner with ARC Clean Technology to deploy an ARC-100 commercial demonstration reactor which plans to be in operation by 2030 at the existing Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating site.