Three years of NMB4; A Driving force toward nuclear innovation through open access nuclear fuel cycle simulator development

Okamura, Tomohiro*; Abe, Takumi ; Nishihara, Takahiro*; Suzuki, Taiga*; Nakase, Masahiko*; Takeshita, Kenji*; Nishihara, Kenji 

Since the public release of NMB4.0 (Nuclear Material Balance analysis code version 4.0) in March 2022, a nuclear fuel cycle simulator jointly developed by Institute of Science Tokyo (Tokyo Institute of Technology at the time of release) and Japan Atomic Energy Agency, we have engaged in continuous development and support. Over the past three years, the user community has grown to encompass over 30 institutions and more than 200 members. Based on many user feedbacks, 12 updates have been implemented, with the current version being 4.1.2. NMB4.0 has been actively employed in various research projects, international and domestic benchmark, and participation in expert working group at international organizations. In addition to the traditional backend process scenario analysis functions in NMB4.0, recent updates have strengthened capabilities in frontend processes, cycle robustness, actinide management and cost evaluations. This presentation will provide an overview of the recent research and development efforts surrounding NMB4.0, along with introducing new initiatives aimed at advancing the future of nuclear fuel cycle innovation.