Molten Salt Reactor for 99Mo Production

Abstract

⁹⁹Mo production in a molten salt reactor with fuel salt based on metal fl uorides (LiF–BeF₂–UF₄) is examined. The proposed method of production is based on a particularity of the behavior of gaseous fission products in salt melts. Molybdenum, together with some other metals, does not form stable compounds in fluoride melt. At least 50% of fragment molybdenum in a molten salt nuclear-physical facility will be in a gas-aerosol phase above the surface of the molten salt. Neutron-physical and thermohydraulic calculations were performed taking into account the specific features of a molten salt reactor. The optimal configuration of the reactor, the materials used, the fuel salt composition, and the fuel cycle are described.