NUMERICAL BENCHMARK OF STRONGLY TO LOOSELY COUPLED ASSEMBLIES USING THE TRANSIENT FISSION MATRIX METHOD

Advances in computational methods have given rise to the study and simulation of different aspects reactor behavior. As such, topics associated with high costs become feasible candidates for further investigation one them is space-time kinetics (STK). Until recently, STK point approximation were limited deterministic codes, Monte Carlo codes being too costly start with. However, recent developments this area allowed use certain stochastic codes. One such technique based on Transient Fission Matrix (TFM) model, a hybrid method that uses system response obtained through stored fission time matrices as input calculations. The result enables view terms neutron propagation probability across system. TFM was applied simple coupled core configuration generate numerical benchmark. Serpent 2 code used part calculation. consists two fuel assemblies placed light water tank, blade varying width between them. TFM, flux results widths, ranging 0 cm 20 cm. data then analyze behavior system, well effects coupling assemblies. move apart, slowly transitions from tightly essentially form single core, almost independent cores. This produce benchmark future calculations predefine an innovative way designing dominant ratio configurations, required tackling residual problems. An actual experimental program could be led ad hoc zero power (ZPR), KUCA Kyoto University.