Features of americium transmutation in a BN-1200M fast reactor

Abstract

The main approaches to americium transmutation in BN-1200M are considered: homogeneous transmutation in the core and heterogeneous transmutation with a moderator in the radial blanket. It is stated that the main limiting factor of transmutation is the residual heat release of the unloaded FAs. Within the design constraints, the annual transmutation rates are approximately the same in both cases. It is proposed to combine the advantages of both transmutational methods so as to ensure the homogeneous transmutation of americium in the core at the level of an equilibrium content and the heterogeneous transmutation of external americium in the radial blanket. On the basis of a simplified economic model, a comparison of various approaches was made and the corresponding technical and economic estimates were given.