Integral fast reactor

Integral Fast Reactor (IFR) is a design for a nuclear reactor using fast neutrons and no neutron moderator (a "fast" reactor). IFR is distinguished by a nuclear fuel cycle that uses reprocessing via electrorefining at the reactor site.

Design and features

The IFR concept includes several key features: a liquid metal (sodium) coolant, onsite reprocessing and waste handling, and a metallic fuel form. The use of liquid sodium as the coolant allows for a low-pressure, high-temperature operation and results in a high thermal efficiency.

Fuel cycle

The IFR fuel cycle is a type of nuclear fuel cycle. It is a closed cycle, meaning that the fuel is recycled. This is done onsite, which reduces the risk of nuclear proliferation. The fuel is metallic, which has several advantages over other fuel types.

History

The Integral Fast Reactor project was initiated at Argonne National Lab in 1984 and continued until 1994, when it was defunded by the U.S. Congress.

Advantages and disadvantages

The IFR has several advantages over traditional reactor designs. It is inherently safe, with a negative temperature coefficient of reactivity. It is also proliferation-resistant, due to the onsite reprocessing. However, the use of liquid sodium coolant presents certain challenges, such as the potential for sodium fires.

See also

• Breeder reactor
• Nuclear power
• Nuclear fuel cycle
• Argonne National Laboratory