Minor actinides transmutation scenario studies with PWRs, FRs and moderated targets

In this study it is demonstrated that it is theoretically possible to obtain different minor actinide transmutation scenarios with a significant gain on the waste radio-toxicity inventory using current technologies. The handling of materials containing Am + Cm entails a significant increase of penetrating radiation sources (neutron and γ) whatever mixed reactor scenario is envisioned: The PWR and fast reactor scenario involving the recycling of Am + Cm in the form of targets results in the lowest mass flow. In the light of these outcomes, the detailed studies has allowed to: - Design a target sub-assembly with a high fission rate (90%). - Define a reprocessing scheme for the plant head and the minor actinide separation processes (PUREX, DIAMEX and SANEX). Some technological difficulties appear in manipulating curium, principally in manufacturing, where the wet process ('sol-gel') is not well suited for (Am + Cm)