LEAD AND LEAD-BISMUTH COOLED FAST REACTORS

12.6.1 LFR (Gen IV)

Lead and lead-bismuth systems are being considered in the GIF programme (The US Generation IV Implementation Strategy, 2003; Figure 12.5). Examples are listed in Table 12.6.

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Figure 12.5. Lead-cooled fast reactor. Source: NEA Annual Report (2002).

Table 12.6. Lead and lead-bismuth cooled reactors

Reactor

Rating (MWe)

Country

Lead and lead-bismuth

LFR (GEN IV)

50-1200

GIF members

Lead

BREST-300/600

300/600

Russia

LCFR

1500 (MWt)

Japan

Lead-bismuth

BRUS-150

150

Russia

SVBR-75

75

Russia

ANGSTREM

6-25

Russia

Data from The US Generation fV Implementation Strategy (2003) and IAEA-TECDOC-1289 (2002).

The system is based on natural convection cooling with outlet temperature 550°C. It could be somewhat higher ~800°C subject to improved materials development. It can be used within a long life closed fuel cycle of up to 30 years in some concepts. It is anticipated to be used for electricity production, hydrogen production and actinide management.