Advancements in Fuel Reprocessing Technology to Close the Fast Breeder Reactor Fuel Cycle

Abstract

Reprocessing of the spent fuel from the fast reactors is vital for closing their fuel cycle. A brief description of state of the art hydrometallurgical method of fast reactor fuel reprocessing is presented. In the hydrometallurgical route of reprocessing the fast reactor fuel, solvent extraction plays an important role. High plutonium content and a higher level of radioactivity associated with the fuel imposes certain conditions on the solvent extraction equipment. A selected number of solvent contactors were chosen for studies based on the application. One among the selected types is the centrifugal extractor. The paper discusses studies carried out in the Reprocessing Programme, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research for the development of this contactor. Various types were designed, fabricated and studied and based on experience, multistage bank type of equipment has been chosen. Studies include mass transfer characteristics, hydrodynamics of equipment, adaptability of equipment for remote operation and remote maintenance, etc. This paper describes various stages of evolution of this contactor and experience with the same in its recent utilisation in a radioactive environment. Future programme of utilisation of this equipment is also presented.