Packaging for transport of irradiated fuel elements - incorporating empty compartment and neutron poison between groups of housings giving control of criticality

摘要

Irradiated nuclear fuel elements may be transported in a package which is arranged so that a gp. of housing is sepd. by a compartment, normally empty. The thickness of the compartment is such that the neutrons are sufficiently thermalised for control of critically when the packaging is filled with water. Neutron poison is provided between the gps. of housings and the empty compartment, which otherwise communicates with them. Compared with existing packaging, problems associated with control of criticality in fuel elements or large section are eliminated, construction is facilitated and resistance to thermal and mechanical stresses is increased.