A multi-regional analysis of nuclear energy systems. Synergies between regions, reactors and fuel cycles

The role of regional nuclear fuel cycle centers has been studied in the 70s and has recently regained interest in the light of a perceived growing importance of nuclear energy in the world's energy provision and the inherent proliferation concerns this might entail. Using the DANESS nuclear energy system dynamics code, ANL is performing a comprehensive study on various nuclear energy deployment scenarios in six world-regions and the potential role that regional nuclear fuel cycle centers may play in facilitating growing nuclear deployments while respecting proliferation concerns. The multi-regional analysis considers various nuclear deployment scenarios for six world-regions (ASI, EUR, FSU, LAM, MAF, NAM) with a nuclear energy demand growth (covering electricity and hydrogen) in these regions as was projected by IIASA/WEC in 1998. Starting from today's nuclear reactor park in the regions, the paper describes various scenarios considering the introduction of LWRs (3rd generation), HTGRs, FRs and STAR-H2 reactors with associated fuel cycle options ranging from once-through to full closure of the nuclear fuel cycle for all transuranic elements. The paper will bring an overview of the full mass-flow analysis for some of the nuclear energy systems considered in the analysis. The role that regional fuel cycle centers might play in delivering fuel cycle services based on a secured and proliferation-resistant approach instead of having to develop full fuel cycle facility capacities in each country using nuclear will be highlighted. (author)