CD’S Burnable Poison for BR2 Fuel Element

In the frame of a global optimization of its BR2 fuel element, SCK-CEN intends to replace the current burnable poisons, which are parts of the fuel core, by cadmium burnable wires. This paper describes the associated modification project. As a first step calculations showing the potential use of Cd wires were performed by BR2. Various Cd wires design were studied in order to down select the appropriate solution. Mechanical studies and dedicated modifications were investigated at AREVA-CERCA in order to evaluate the burnable poison modification using Cd wires inserted in the side plates instead of Sm2O3, B4C which are actually mixed inside the fuel core. This project leads to a qualification approach of the new design where 2 BR2 Cd’s fuel elements will be irradiated at Mol Mid 2010.