Abstract: A self-sustaining chain reaction involving neutrons and fission is possible if a critical mass of fuel is accumulated. The value of the multiplication factor k indicates whether a reactor is subcritical (<1), critical (=1), or supercritical (>1). The reactor power, which is proportional to the product of flux and the number of fuel atoms, is readily adjustable. A thermal reactor contains a moderator and operates on slowed neutrons. Reactors are classified according to purpose, neutron energy, moderator and coolant, fuel, arrangement, and structural material. Principal types are the pressurized water reactor (PWR), the boiling water reactor (BWR), the high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR), and liquid metal fast breeder reactor (LMFBR). Excess fuel is added to a reactor initially to take care of burning during the operating cycle, with adjustable control absorbers maintaining criticality. Account must be taken of fission product absorbers such as Xe-135 and of limitations related to thermal and radiation effects.
Publication Year: 2009
Publication Date: 2009-01-01
Language: en
Type: book-chapter
Indexed In: ['crossref']
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