Update on the FUTURIX-FTA experiment in Phenix

In support of the European and American programs to investigate the use of nuclear reactors and accelerator-driven systems for transmutation of transuranic elements recovered from spent nuclear fuels, a joint irradiation test is planned for the last two power cycles of the Phenix fast reactor. This irradiation test is designated FUTURIX-FTA. The objective of the experiment is to provide important data on the fast-spectrum irradiation performance of CERCER (oxide), CERMET, metallic and nitride fuels loaded with very high concentrations of plutonium, neptunium and americium. Both uranium-bearing and uranium-free compositions are included in the experimental test matrix, as well as helium and sodium-bonded fuel pin designs. While the objective of the test has remained unchanged, the design of the experiment has evolved since first presented. In this paper, the factors and R and D results that have contributed to the design changes are reviewed, and the revised experiment design is presented. (author)