Advanced thermochemical modelling for recycling spent Canadian nuclear fuels

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This application proposes the development of a new thermodynamic nuclear fuel recycling model that will expand Canada's knowledge and expertise in the area of spent nuclear fuel recycling. The results can be used to define and focus future efforts to develop a viable recycling program compatible with international agreements and Canada's future energy needs. The Nuclear Waste Management Organization of Canada recommends the use of the Adaptive Phased Management approach whereby the single-pass spent fuel is stored ultimately in an isolated Deep Geological Repository. This approach is wasteful as the spent fuel contains unused fertile and fissile isotopes that could be extracted from the fission products and re-introduced into the nuclear fuel cycle. The aim of the research outlined in this grant application is to advance Canada's knowledge base and expertise in the area of recycling nuclear fuel. To achieve this objective, the development of a validated thermodynamic nuclear fuel recycling model is proposed. A thermodynamic model capable of predicting the phase equilibrium of the partially burned fuel as it is reprocessed would be created. The Low Enriched UO2-fission product fuel model, previously developed by the applicant, will be the basis of this new nuclear fuel recycling model. While the current model has been used successfully and provides a solid foundation, extensive effort is required to enhance the model to account accurately for aqueous and gaseous chemistry encountered in fuel recycling. The proposed work will involve the addition of these compounds and phases to the model, followed by corroboration with discrete enthalpy measurements. The development of this model is beneficial as it allows the modellers to predict theoretically the behaviour of the fuel material for a wide spectrum of chemical processing techniques. Using the model, the most viable technique for chemical reprocessing can be determined without costly and hazardous experimentation. The most promising technique then could be investigated experimentally with a small number of physical tests. As part of the research, the development of a Mo-based oxygen sensor to assist experimental work is included.