Chapter 7 Coupled multiphysics simulations in nuclear reactor design and safety Chapter uri icon

abstract

  • The modeling and simulation of nuclear reactors involve various disciplines of physics, such as neutronics, thermal fluid dynamics, nuclear fuel performance, structural mechanics, and chemistry. These physical phenomena occur at different scales in space and time, and their interdependencies make coupled multiphysics simulations essential for designing and assessing the safety of nuclear reactors. In this chapter, we provide a comprehensive overview of multiphysics calculations in modeling and simulation. To enhance understanding and emphasize the importance of the coupled multiphysics approach, we begin with a pedagogical example. The rest of the chapter focuses on a core-cavity draining transient in a molten salt reactor, which serves as a realistic case study for safety evaluations using multiphysics simulations.

author list (cited authors)

  • Ragusa, J. C.

citation count

  • 0

complete list of authors

  • Ragusa, Jean C

editor list (cited editors)

  • Smith, C. L., Le Blanc, K., & Mandelli, D.

Book Title

  • Risk-Informed Methods and Applications in Nuclear and Energy Engineering

publication date

  • January 2024