A.A. Harms

The nuclear and aerial dynamics of the Tunguska Event

Abstract A mathematical-physical characterization of an atmospheric “explosive” event—commonly called the Tunguska Event of 1908—has been formulated. Emphasis is placed upon the aerial dynamics and the nuclear energy released in the gas cap of the meteor as it passed through the atmosphere. The results obtained are consistent with the dominant phenomena observed for the Tunguska Event suggesting therefore a plausible reconstruction of the physical processes associated with this unusual event.

Fissile fuel breeding potential with paired fusion-fission reactors

Abstract The potential fissile fuel breeding capacity of paired fusion-fission reactors is examined. Compact relationships for the fissile fuel conversion ratio and fissile fuel doubling time are derived as functions of both fusion and fission reactor parameters for two operational cases. Based on this lumped parameter analysis, it is concluded that substantial fissile fuel production with paired fusion-fission nuclear energy systems is thus possible.

Interactive nuclear kinetics and nonlinear dynamics

Abstract Distinct nuclear reaction cycles are examined and found to possess similar though very complicated nonlinear dynamical characterizations.

Accelerator-supported regionally distributed nuclear heat systems with nuclear-waste abatement capacity

Abstract An accelerator-supported decentralized system of small nuclear heat sources characterized by versatility and long-term sustainability is investigated. The distinctive features of this concept follow from the complementary use of neutrons produced by high energy proton-induced spallation reactions and used both for repeated in-situ rejuvenation of spent nuclear fuel and for the reduction of nuclear waste by fission product transmutation. The general technological and economic characteristics of this system are found to possess considerable appeal.

Fissile fuel dynamics of breeder/converter reactors

Abstract The long-term fissile fuel dynamics for a hierarchy of fission reactors covering the range from pure-burners to super-breeders is examined. It is found that the breeding gains of the core and blanket can be used to identify several distinct fissile fuel histories and elucidate the importance of fuel cycle characteristics such as the time dependence of the fissile fuel doubling time. On this basis, then, a self-sufficient fission reactor is introduced and its determining characteristics are identified.

The nonlinear dynamics of a coupled fission system

Abstract The dynamical properties of a nonlinear and in situ vibrationally perturbed nuclear-to-thermal coupled neutron multiplying medium is examined. Some unique self-organizational temporal patterns appear in such fission systems and suggest a complex underlying dynamic.

Nuclear energy: In search of a paradigm shift

Abstract The leveling-off trend in global installed nuclear power capacity together with the absence of an assured prospect of fission energy renewal, is here taken as a potential precursor to a paradigm shift in fission reactor technology. Underlying this perspective is the recognition that existing reactors are based on a rigid-fuel core configuration which has been shown to possess an intractable sensitivity to fuel melting under conceivable operational disruptions. Our analysis suggests that a fuel-in-suspension developmental initiative could—with considerable efficiency—clarify a critical component substitution as a potential factor in nuclear energy renewal.

On the topology of linear and nonlinear reactor kinetics

Abstract Selected aspects of linear and nonlinear nuclear reactor kinetics are examined by general topological methods. It is shown that for the case of power-law intrinsic reactivity feedback, unforced autonomous rapid dynamics do not display cyclic components and that the nominal operating state is not unique.

A physical-topological characterization of group response to nuclear power

Abstract A physical-topological model of societal response to the introduction of a technology such as nuclear power is proposed. The formulation is based on a conceptual-geometric construct familiar in physics and mathematics. An interesting feature of the model is that it provides for the intrinsic inclusion of such intra-societal conflict manifestations as opinion reversals, opinion polarizations and apparent inconsistencies. The general applicability of this characterization to other societal conflict domains is suggested.

On the dynamics of fuel pellets in suspension

Abstract The dynamics of pellet distributions in a 2-dimensional column is investigated by means of numerical simulation. Statistical parameters such as relaxation time to a homogeneous distribution and escape time for an open-end column are examined by a computational analysis of N = 1000 pellets. An initial characterization of the dynamics of the nonequilibrium fuel distribution in a pellet suspension reactor is thus established.