Interim assessment of the denatured /sup 233/U fuel cycle: feasibility and nonproliferation characteristics

Abstract

Contract Ho. W-7405-eng-26 Engineering Physics Division V ABSTRACT OF 0RM.-5.T88 A fuel cycle tnat esnloys a33 U denatured with 23a U and mixed with thorium fertile material is examined with respect ta its proliferation-resistance characteristics and its technical and economic feasibility. The rationale for considering the denatured 233 U fuel cycle is presented, and the impact of the denatured fuel on the performance of Light-Water Peactors, Spectral-Shi ft-Control led Reactors, Gas-Cooled Reactors, H»avy-Water Reactors, and Fast Breeder Reactors is discussed. The scope of the R.D'.i) programs to cowuercialize these reactors ar.1 their asscciated fuel cycles is also S'jrfmarized and the resource require ments ani eco*amics of denatured 233 U cyc'«es are compared to those of the conventional Pu/U cycle. In addition, several nuclear power systems tnat employ denatured 233 U fuel and are based on the energy center concept are evaluated. Under this concept, dispersed power reactors fueled with denatured or low-enriched uranium fuel are supported by secure energy centers in which sensitive activities of the nuclear cycle are performed. These activities irclude ?n U production by Pu-fueled "tranrmuters" (thermal or fast reactors) and repocessfng. A summary chapter presents the most significant conclusions from the study and recommends areas for future work. vi