Stepnik, B. ; Grasse, M. ; Jarousse, C. ; Geslin, D. ; Shulthess, J. ; Glagolenko, I. ; Yacout, A. ; Bhattacharya, S. ; Wincek, T. ; Pellin, M. ; van den Berghe, S. ; Leenaers, A. ; Breitkreutz, H.MLZ* ; Huber, T.MLZ* ; Schenk, R.MLZ* ; Petry, W.MLZ* ; Delpech, M. ; Palancher, H. ; Calzavara, Y. ; Guyon, H.

2016

Abstract: In the framework of the joint international endeavors to support the non-proliferation efforts by minimizing the use of highly enriched uranium, a research reactor fuel based on uranium-molybdenum (UMo) alloys is being developed by the HERACLES group in close collaboration with US DOE and partners from all over the world. HERACLES is composed of AREVA-NP (former CERCA), CEA, ILL, SCK•CEN and TUM. HERACLES works towards the qualification of UMo fuels, based on a series of comprehension experiments and manufacturing developments.The European Mini Plate IRadiation Experiment (EMPIRE) is an irradiation experiment funded by US DOE to support the HERACLES conversion program. It is a screening experiment of dispersion and monolithic UMo mini-size plates, mainly regarding fuel fabrication techniques and process options. It will be irradiated in ATR reactor (INL) in 2017.We will present the EMPIRE manufacturing project and the status of the LEU mini-size plate production. The focus will be on the LEU UMo dispersed mini-plates.

Keyword(s): Others (1st) ; Industrial Application (2nd)

1. RPHYSICS (RPHYSICS)

1. HEU-MEU: Brennstoffentwicklung