Inherent safety concepts in nuclear power reactors

Different inherent safety concepts being considered in fast and thermal reactors are presented after outlining the basic goals of nuclear reactor safety, the ‘defence in depth’ philosophy to achieve these goals and the characteristics affecting the safety of liquid metal fast breeder and light water reactors. The inherent safety potential of fast reactors with respect to different sizes and types of fuel is also discussed. Finally, the approach proposed for the Indian Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (Pfbr), which is in the detailed design stage, is also presented.