A review of fast reactor program in Japan April 2005 - March 2006

This report describes the research and development activities on fast reactors in Japan covering the period from April 2005 to March 2006. On October 1, 2005, the Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) made its first steps as an independent administrative institution. JAEA is the result of the integration of the Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute (JAERI) and the Japan Nuclear Cycle Development Institute (JNC). 'Framework for Nuclear Energy Policy' was decided by the Atomic Energy Commission on October 11th, 2005 as a basic principle for the nuclear energy policy and promotes research, development and utilization of nuclear science and engineering. JOYO completed the 2nd duty cycle for Mk-III program, and the fuel failure simulation test was carried out to verify the plant operation in fuel failure events. From the 3rd duty cycle, oxide dispersion strengthened ferritic steel (ODS), and MOX fuel with 5% americium added and with both neptunium and americium added are planned to be irradiated. JAEA have started preparatory work for modification, after given prior approval by the local governor of Fukui in February 2005, and the main modification work is in progress since September 2005, which has achieved 63% completion by the end of April 2006. As for the Feasibility Study on Commercialized Fast Reactor Cycle Systems, the final report of phase-II was compiled based on the results of study for a five-year period from JFY2001 to 2005, aiming 'to identify the most promising candidate concept for the commercialization of the FR cycle, as well as to draw up the future R and D program.' The outcomes of phase-II include 'a principle for prioritizing R and D as well as R and D programs until approximately 2015, and the potential future issues.' Currently the final report is under check and review by the government. The flexible and strategic R and D plan for those concepts will be developed toward the commercialization of FR cycle system. (author)