Overview of Microreactor Technical Challenges and Opportunities

Microreactors provide a new opportunity for the deployment and use of nuclear power in nontraditional markets and applications. This opportunity stems principally from the small physical size and the small power level of these reactors, which enable the possibility of transportable and relocatable nuclear power. However, these same characteristics give rise to significant challenges of feasibility and economic competitiveness.This article seeks to compile and identify key technical and regulatory knowledge gaps in support of the development of this new class of nuclear power systems. The challenges identified include those arising in the context of reactor physics design and modeling, shielding during operation and transportation, balance of plant, fuels, structural materials, controls, licensing, siting, transportation, and economics. Specific challenges, such as high neutron leakage, fuel enrichment, decay heat removal, and regulatory requirements, are also discussed.An attempt is made to identify solutions and key considerations that must be made when attempting to address these challenges. This includes topics such as advanced materials and fuels, new technologies, and new and adapted markets that would be more amenable to microreactors.