COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THORIUM UTILIZATION IN SMALL MODULAR REACTORS THROUGH MONTE CARLO SIMULATIONS.

Resumo

This study aims to analyze previous results regarding the replacement of the burnable poison Gadolinium (Gd2O3), widely used in nuclear reactors, by the element Thorium (Th). The proposal seeks to evaluate and validate the feasibility of using more abundant elements, capable of extending energy production in Small Modular Reactor (SMR). The demand for lowemission nuclear power has driven research into innovative technologies, with SMRs emerging as a promising solution. This project explores the potential of Th, which is more abundant than Uranium (U) and with large reserves in Brazil, as a fuel in SMRs. The research aims to contribute to energy efficiency, using simulation programs based on the Monte Carlo Code, such as SERPENT, where calculations of cells and fuel elements are performed to understand the behavior of thorium compared to gadolinium. This approach aims not only to enhance the understanding of thorium utilization in SMRs, but also to contribute to significant advances in a more sustainable and safe energy matrix, with less production of radioactive waste and better control of reactor reactivity. Keywords: Thorium; Nuclear energy; Small Modular Reactors; SMR; Burnable poison