The lecture shall first provide an insight into the global energy context and the potential role of nuclear energy in the global energy balance. Then, the students shall get acquainted with the current status of nuclear power plants in the world, the different types and design characteristics of the most widely used reactors, their operation, control and safety features. A brief description shall be provided on the three major nuclear accidents: TMI (USA -1979), Chernobyl (Ukraine - 1986) and Fukushima (Japan - 2011). Finally the future potential development of nuclear energy shall be presented through few concepts among the most promising ones currently known as Generation 4 reactors. A brief conclusion shall address the important role of the safety in any context of further development of nuclear reactors for electricity production.
Language: English
Duration: 2 academic hours
Tutor of the course:
Dr. M. Chouha, Institute for Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN), France