Thermionic fuel element verification program-summary of results

摘要

The thermionic fuel element (TFE) verification program, began in 1986 to evaluate the performance and lifetime of TFEs in a fast reactor, is discussed. Test data on fueled emitters are being obtained from the TRIGA and EBR-II test reactors. Insulators and cesium reservoirs are being tested in FFTF and EBR-II, and electricity-producing TFEs are operating in the TRIGA reactor. Components that meet requirements are being identified. The scope of this six-year program is described, and the results to date on insulators, fueled emitters, and the thermionic fuel elements and their out-of-core testing are summarized.