Design and installation of the operational chemistry facility in support of LWBR binary (233U) fuel production. LWBR development program

The goal of the LWBR Development Program is to develop basic technology to improve the fuel utilization of light water reactors using a 233U/thorium fuel breeding system. As part of this program, accurate chemical characterizations of fuel pellets at the beginning and end of core life are necessary to determine the degree of breeding achieved. The Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory Operational Chemistry facility is designed to provide fuel pellet analyses before core operation through the use of glovebox lines and associated equipment arranged as interconnected laboratories. These laboratories use commercially available equipment adapted for maximum radiological safety on a production-line basis. This report describes the facility design and installation, assesses the design in light of operational experience, and suggests features to be considered in future facilities