B4991 - Nuclear Reactor Physics T

Learning outcomes

The course provides students with the physical and mathematical skills for the analysis of fission nuclear reactors in terms of neutron multiplication and migration, as well as their interaction with matter. The evolution of nuclear reactor designs is examined, from the Manhattan Project to the fourth generation, also providing a basic introduction to controlled thermonuclear fusion. At the end of the course, students will be able to understand the characteristics of different nuclear reactors designs and assess their role in the global energy context, with particular reference to sustainability, economic viability, safety, and reliability.

Course contents

I. Nuclear Reactor Theory (3 CFU) - Introduction di physical mathematical modelling of transport, moderation and kinetic of neutrons in a fission nuclear reactor core.

1. Neutron Diffusion Theory
2. Neutron Energy Distribution
3. Nuclear Reactor Dynamics
4. Fuel Cycle

II. History and Core Design Evolution (2 CFU) - Hystorical perspective on the evolution of nuclear reactors up to IV generation, reactor for special applciations and accident analysis.

1. Manhatthan project and Gen I and II reactors
2. Gen III and III+ reactors (PWR, BWR, HWR, GCR, LMFBR, ABWR, APWR)
3. Gen IV, SMR and AMR
4. Nuclear accidents

III. Introduction to Nuclear Fusion (1 CFU) - Fundamentals on nuclear fusion physics and technologies for magnetic confinement fusion reactors.

1. Power Balance
2. Magnetic Confinment
3. Reactor Design and Technological Challenges

Readings/Bibliography

Weston M. Stacey, Nuclear Reactor Physics, 3rd Edition, 2018, ISBN: 978-3-527-81230-1

Jeffrey P. Freidberg, Plasma Physics and Fusion Energy, Cambridge University Press, 2007

Handbook of Generation IV Nuclear Reactors - A Guidebook, Woodhead Publishing Series in Energy, Second Edition, 2023

R. Serber, The Los Alamos primer : the first lectures on how to build an atomic bomb, University of California Press; First Edition (March 2, 1992) 

All texbooks are available online through the UNIBO Library System

Teaching methods

Frontal lessons, guided numerical exercises

Assessment methods

Written test on theory and open questions on various aspects of reactor physics. Possible oral exam (alternative or integrative) at the discretion of the teacher.

The detailed program for each lesson with references to the chapters of the textbooks will be made available to students during the teaching.

The list of all the questions that may be asked during the exam will be published at the end of the course.

Teaching tools

The detailed program for each lesson with references to the chapters of the texts, will be made available to students during the teaching.

Teacher's slides.

Official databases, MATLAB codes and software.

Office hours

See the website of Emanuele Ghedini