OVERVIEW

The course provides an introduction to the themes and problems of nuclear physics related to energy production.

After a reminder of neutron physics and neutron-matter interactions, the fundamental aspects of fission and fusion reactors will be addressed. 

Finally, some technological and instrumental aspects related to the operations of these systems will be discussed.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The teaching provides students with an understanding of the physical mechanisms underlying the operation of fusion and fission reactors. In particular, it covers how plasma confinement works using magnetic fields in fusion reactors, how neutron fluxes are produced and regulated within fission reactors, the processes used for energy production and extraction, and the systems used to monitor energy production. The course will also analyse reactors currently in operation and those of the next generation.

PREREQUISITES

knowledge of classical mechanics, quantum mechanics and nuclear physics acquired during the undergraduate courses

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

Physics of neutrons and fission reactors

Reminder of nuclear physics: neutron-nucleus interactions

Propagation of neutrons in matter: diffusion equation and its application to simple geometries

Physics of fission reactors (thermal and fast)

Reactor criticality equation and its application

Physics of fusion reactors

Reactions of interest for nuclear fusion

Behavior of a plasma in magnetic fields and its confinement

Operating principles of fusion reactors

Technology aspects of fission and fusion reactors

Instrumentation for nuclear diagnostics of reactors

Materials for the construction of reactors

Fuel cycle, reactor decommissioning, nuclear waste management

Current research topics for nuclear energy production

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

• J. Lamarsh, “Introduction to Nuclear Engineering”

• A.A. Harms et al, “Principles of Fusion Energy”

• E. De Sanctis et al, “Energy from Nuclear Fission: an introduction”

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

FURTHER INFORMATION

Students who have valid certification of physical or learning disabilities on file with the University and who wish to discuss possible accommodations or other circumstances regarding lectures, coursework and exams, should speak both with the instructor and with Professor Sergio Di Domizio (sergio.didomizio@unige.it), the Department’s disability liaison.