Development of core cladding fabrication techniques for Phase I fissionpropulsion systems

摘要

Phase I fission propulsion systems focus on safety, timely development andaffordability. Prototype and flight units can be tested at full thrust, using resistance heaters to closely simulate heat from a fission reaction. In Phase I ground testing, one goal is to establish a reliable and affordable manufacturing technique for fabricating a flight-like core. A refractory metal (Me) has been suggested for the core substrate, primarily due to the existence of a significant database for Mo/U02 fuel. The core can be fabricated by bundling Mo tubes with a bonding system that meets preliminary test goals.