Basics of accelerator driven subcritical reactors

This paper is an introduction to the physics of Accelerator Driven Subcritical Reactors (ADSR) and some technologies associated with them. The basic neutronics is presented with a specific discussion of modifications with respect to that of critical reactors. The fuel evolution in ADSRʹs is discussed, including the influence of reactivity surges and drops on the limitation of the design reactivity. The application of ADSRs to nuclear waste management is examined and the different options are discussed. Finally, some practical proposals are briefly discussed.