A Modular metal fuel fast reactor enhancing economic potential

Chikazawa, Yoshitaka  ; Okano, Yasushi; Konomura, Mamoru; Sato, Koji; Ando, Masato*; Nakanishi, Shigeyuki*; Sawa, Naoki*; Shimakawa, Yoshio*

A diversified or modular power source is attractive since it requires a low construction cost per unit and can be demonstrated in small scale experimental facilities. In this study, a new metal fuel sodium cooled reactor with 300MW electric has been developed enhancing cost reduction. And economical potential at demonstration stage with first of a kind (FOAK) is emphasized. A minimum configuration with a compact reactor vessel, a one-loop main cooling system and a simple fuel handling system are adopted enhancing cost reduction within safety requirement. Besides, construction cost of a demonstration plant with a first kind of reactor and a small reprocessing and fuel manufacturing facility is also evaluated. A major feature of the present concept is that the demonstration facilities can be appropriated for commercialized ones since they can be easily commercialize by increasing reactor and electrorefiner modules. A FBR cycle commercialization scenario using the present concept is thought to give low risk and high cost performance since the total demonstration plant cost is relatively small and the facilities are directly appropriated to commercial use.