Investigating High Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactors for Research Applications

Using existing research, analytical methods, and computational simulations, the feasibility of a 10 MW HTGR for research purposes is explored. Great strides are underway in fission technology for energy production, and few studies have been conducted on HTGRs for research applications. These reactors are compact, have long refueling periods, and inherent safety features. Valuing safety, cost, and ease of operation, this study proposes a HTGR pebble-bed reactor (PBR) be designed for university research, and sets up a framework for future projects at WPI