Science and Technology of Liquid Metal Coolants in Nuclear Engineering

Book excerpt: Science and Technology of Liquid Metal Coolants in Nuclear Engineering is a comprehensive consolidation of the latest research and knowledge on liquid metal coolants. Over the last decades, various new technologies have been developed for the liquid metal coolants of fast breeder and fusion reactors and accelerator driven systems. Details of pumps and instrumentation used in these coolants and their operating principles are included to provide the reader with a well-rounded understanding of the topic and to guide on the operation of different liquid metal coolant systems. Methods for the safe handling and control of impurity levels in these coolants are clearly discussed, along with alkali metal fires and their management, including methods for safe disposal of sodium waste. - Discusses the thermophysical and chemical properties of liquid metals described with their microscopic origin - Includes methods for the safe handling of liquid metal coolants and their purification and management - Discusses pumps and instrumentation principles and design