Generation IV approach -- the development of sodium fast reactors

F. Gauché}

Commissariat à l'Énergie Atomique (CEA), Saclay, France

Abstract
France has a long history of R&D, construction and operation of fast neutron reactors. However, with the shutdown of Superphenix reactor more than 10 years ago and of Phenix in 2009, it is important to demonstrate that fast neutron reactors are part of the energy solution for the future, and that they can meet Generation IV (GENIV) requirements. It is therefore important to present the main objectives of Generation IV reactors, to describe briefly different technologies that are studied in the framework of the Generation IV International Forum, and to recall the main features of sodium-cooled fast reactors. To reach the GENIV criteria, R&D is needed and main topics of French R&D on sodium fast reactors will be presented. Along with the R&D, plans for the prototype ASTRID (Advanced Sodium Technological Reactor for Industrial Demonstration) have been prepared. As an industrial prototype, it is foreseen to be put into operation around 2020. In 2010, in a broader investment plan for the future, ASTRID was confirmed as one of the priorities and received an appropriate funding for the design phase.