Features of fast reactor core and requirements of fuel

Fast neutron reactors provide sustainable nuclear energy for several centuries through efficient utilization of the uranium as well as thorium resources. Fuels in fast reactor core reach much higher levels of burn-up than that in thermal reactors. Another important and unique feature of fast reactors is the possibility of breeding more fissile material than that is consumed for energy production. The breeding process converts fertile isotope (e.g. ²³⁸U) to fissile isotope (²³⁹Pu), which means effective utilisation of the fertile material. The high burn-up reached in fast reactors and high utilization factor of fuel imply less fuel fabrication and reprocessing capacities per unit energy production. Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI), a public sector unit under Department of Atomic Energy, is responsible for construction, commissioning and operation of fast reactors in India. Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) which is in advanced stage of commissioning is the forerunner for the second stage of India's three stage nuclear programme. PFBR is a 1250 MWt (500 MWe), (U-Pu)O₂ fuelled, sodium cooled, pool type fast reactor. It is a first of its kind reactor with total indigenous technology. The successful construction, commissioning and operation of Fast Breeder Test Reactor at Kalpakkam have given confidence to embark on the construction of PFBR. This paper describes the features of fast reactor core and specific requirements of fuel