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The human factor in licensing and operating the next generation of nuclear plants
As human factors specialists working at the intersection of human performance and nuclear operations, we are witnessing one of the nuclear sector’s most significant transitions in decades. The emergence of small modular reactors, microreactors, and other advanced designs is reshaping the industry’s landscape. Digital instrumentation and controls, passive safety systems, and increased automation are creating opportunities for greater safety margins and more flexible operation. These same features also fundamentally redefine what it means to “operate” a nuclear plant. Interactions among human roles, automation, and passive systems shape how people maintain awareness, exercise judgment, and intervene when necessary. These developments affect both operational realities and the regulatory foundations on which nuclear safety is built.
S. Bagheri, H. Khalafi, A. A. Bahrami
Nuclear Technology | Volume 211 | Number 5 | May 2025 | Pages 940-952
Research Article | doi.org/10.1080/00295450.2024.2362524
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
One of the critical concerns in developing small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) is employing efficient radiation shielding consistent with the design and implementation requirements. Besides observing the radiation shielding requirements, the design process entails developing compact, lightweight shielding as well as ensuring the safety of the staff and radiation-sensitive equipment around the reactor under different operating conditions. Conventional methods of radiation shielding design are based on experiments conducted. Therefore, the resultant design involves trial and error, rarely achieving an optimal, effective, and efficient design.
In this study, a multi-objective method based on the genetic algorithm coupled with the MNCP calculation code has been used to enhance the radiation shielding system of a SMR. Using this method, the thickness of different shielding layers has been optimized to minimize the total dose (neutrons and gamma) at the output, the weight, and the overall volume of the shielding. To assess and compare the method used to an implemented conventional method, a sample design of the MRX nuclear power reactor is considered. Using the optimization technique, the radiation shielding of the reactor has been redesigned and compared with the original design.
This paper discusses the existing deficiencies in the initial design of the primary shield of the reactor as a design implemented based on conventional methods. Similar to the original design, the main materials considered for radiation shielding in consecutive layers were water and steel, and the final layer contained lead. The thickness of the different layers and their arrangements have been optimized to assess the upgraded method. The calculations indicate that the overall thickness of the proposed shielding is suggested as 93.8 cm compared to 140 cm to obtain the total dose of neutrons and gammas, which is suggested as less than 10 µSv/h. The results imply a 38.56% reduction in volume and a 17.24% reduction in weight of the radiation shielding compared to the reference reactor design.
