Sensors for sodium coolant monitoring in Fast Reactors

Sensors for sodium coolant monitoring in Fast Reactors

Fast Reactors provide the best means of utilizing the vast thorium reserves of India to meet its future energy needs. The greater neutron economy of Fast Reactors contributes more neutrons for the conversion of Thorium-232 into Uranium-233 and helps maximize the utilization of thorium. The need to maintain a hard neutron spectrum precludes the use of moderating materials such as water as coolant in fast reactors. Liquid sodium metal is the coolant of choice in fast reactors as it is non-moderating. In addition, pure sodium is highly compatible with austenitic stainless steel, which is the structural material for fast reactors. But presence of impurities can affect the compatibility. Oxygen in sodium can bring about enhanced corrosion and activity transport and complicate reactor operation and maintenance. Carbon in sodium can lead to carburization of stainless steel.
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