Fuel Activities related to ADS development at SCK·CEN

In the framework of the MYRRHA project, devoted to the design of a multipurpose experimental accelerator-driven system (ADS), an R&D program for ADS fuel development, studies, qualification and management is under consideration at SCK•CEN. Different kinds of fuels are expected to be used and tested in the MYRRHA ADS. MOX fuel with 20-30 % Pu, will be used as a basic fuel for the subcritical core. Some targets with minor actinides (MA) will be irradiated close to the spallation target, to study the MA-incineration in the ADS. In a later phase, the fuel of commercial nuclear reactors can be tested in the reflector zone. Finally, some experimental assemblies with uranium-free fuels containing MA could be loaded in the subcritical core as well. The development, qualification, handling and management of these fuels pose a lot of problems that should be resolved before starting the ADS construction. The needed techniques, tools, infrastructure and hot-cell capabilities should be foreseen and developed in the meantime. This paper provides an overview of the related activities and achievements at SCK•CEN in collaboration with BELGONUCLEAIRE.