A fool proof non-proliferation nuclear reactor concept

Abstract

Abstract The non-proliferation characteristics of the Fixed Bed Nuclear Reactor (FBNR) is based on both, the extrinsic concept of sealing and the intrinsic concept of isotope denaturing. Its small spherical fuel elements are confined in a fuel chamber that can be sealed by the authorities for inspection at any time. Only the fuel chamber is needed to be transported from the fuel factory to the site and back. There is no possibility of neutron irradiation to any external fertile material. Isotopic denaturing of the fuel cycle either in the U-233/Th or Pu-239/U cycle increases the proliferation resistance substantially. Therefore, both concepts of “sealing” and “isotope denaturing” contribute to the fool proof non-proliferation characteristics of the proposed reactor. This contribution is focussing only on the won-proliferation aspect of the reactor.