Design studies of ELECTRA : European Lead-Cooled Training Reactor

Abstract: A fast neutron research reactor with heavy metal coolant is of interest for Generation IV reactor system develop- ers. In this thesis, the European Lead-Cooled Training Reactor (ELECTRA), which is a low-power lead-cooled fast reactor intended for training purposes, is analyzed. The main aim of the design is that the total nominal power of 0.5 MWth is fully removed by natural circula- tion of the pure lead, eliminating the need for pumps. In order to achieve that, an uranium free inert matrix fuel is selected. Moreover, absorber elements are placed outside the core as a segment of slowly rotating drums. Neutronics and some relevant transient analysis of such a design are discussed.