Activation calculations

The dismantling of a nuclear power plant requires precise knowledge of the radioactive inventory of all plant components resulting from decades of operation. However, it is not economical to carry out sampling measurements everywhere in the nuclear facility and for each individual component. Therefore, against the background of safe and economic planning of the dismantling of the plant, exact calculations of the radioactive inventory of all components are essential.

As early as 2009, we developed a new innovative calculation method with the globally recognized 3D simulation software MCNP, which makes it possible to calculate the radioactive inventory of nuclear facilities in the highest level of detail. In addition to the detailed, realistic modelling of the 3D geometry, the entire operational history of the plants is included in the new procedure, along with all the fuel elements used.

This calculation method makes it possible to predict the radioactive inventory with the highest possible accuracy at any point and time in the plant. The procedure is similar to computer tomography in humans, which is also carried out in three dimensions. The advantage is obvious: every location in the model of the reactor is accessible. In particular, neutron scattering - also known as the neutron streaming effect - can be made visible in remote areas.

This allows the determination of even the smallest activations below the limit of naturally occurring radioactivity. This applies to the reactor pressure vessel including all internals as well as to the components further outside, such as the biological shield and loop lines up to the steam generators. This 3-D computer model forms the basis for an "activity atlas", i.e. a kind of relief map of the entire reactor. This makes it possible to determine both the dose exposure of the personnel involved in dismantling activities as well as the quantities of waste to be disposed of for final storage, thus giving the plant operator a high degree of planning certainty. The newly developed method thus offers an effective tool for safe and economic planning of dismantling with great savings potential for the operators.

Utility

  • 3D activation calculations for nuclear facilities with the highest possible accuracy using internationally recognized and validated calculation programs.

  • Accurate dismantling and packaging planning are made possible by the spatially high-resolution results of the activation calculations.

  • Safe and economic planning of dismantling with great savings potential for the operators

  • Activation calculations also for control elements, instrumentation lances, neutron sources and other core scrap materials

Previous Customers

  • Krsko nuclear power plant (PWR), Slovenia

  • Biblis A and B nuclear power plant (PWR), Germany

  • Isar 1 nuclear power plant (BWR), Germany

  • Gundremmingen B and C nuclear power plant (BWR), Germany

  • Mülheim-Kärlich nuclear power plant (PWR), Germany