A Reactor Physicist’s Explanation of Chernobyl

Christopher Perfetti, assistant professor at the University of New Mexico, will analyze the Chernobyl accident from the viewpoint of a reactor physicist. He will explore the physical mechanisms that led to Chernobyl's runaway chain reaction and will explain why they are not possible in modern reactors. In addition, he will:

• Explore fact vs. fiction for some tales surrounding Chernobyl
• Discuss some interesting Chernobyl trivia
• Look at recent photos from the actual Chernobyl site

This presentation will provide a valuable understanding of reactor physics, and will also provide enough interesting information about Chernobyl to appeal to seasoned reactor physicists.

Presenter

• Christopher Perfetti, Assistant Professor, Nuclear Engineering Department, University of New Mexico

Moderator

• Florent Heidet, Manager of the Advanced Nuclear Energy System (ANES) Group, Argonne National Laboratory Nuclear Science and Engineering (NSE) Division