Microreactors And Smr Fuel Cycles - Non-proliferation By Design And Fuel Cycle Options To Be Studied In Conceptual Design

Through a few examples of microreactors and SMR fuel cycles concepts, the presentation will highlight the need for application of Non-Proliferation by Design and for early consideration of fuel cycle options since their conceptual design.Non-proliferation by design implies -the choice of less « attractive » fuel cycles options during conceptual design, -Protection of Technologies by Design, -the choice of fuel cycles options reducing the need for safeguards -and Safeguards by Design.Focusing on proliferation during reactor operation is not sufficient since, depending on the SMR concept, proliferation weakness is often on the front-end or back-end of the fuel cycle. But non-proliferation is not the only parameter to be taken into account; safety and economics are also key parameters. The fissile material market is about to experience significant change in the next 10-20 years. SMR developers must develop a robust business model taking it into account. Economic sustainability, high standards of safety and ambitious non-proliferation objectives are often antagonistic, but not always! Non-proliferant fuel cycle must be compatible with realistic economic conditions and credible and secured supply chain. .