Radiation & Reactor Theory (RRT)
Radiation and Reactor Theory Focus Area
The Radiation & Reactor Theory (RRT) focus area provides calculational and analysis services in reactor neutronics, thermal-hydraulics, criticality, shielding, activation and isotope production, both to Necsa and external clients. Furthermore, RRT develops, hosts and manages the Overall System for the Calculation of Reactors (OSCAR-5) reactor calculational platform that is used inhouse and by various nuclear institutions around the world to model their respective reactors. Both of these activities leverage on a strong technology platform in radiation transport and reactor modelling and simulation in RRT, maintained through an active research program. In general, these programs contribute to the strategic thematic areas of Neutron Source Generation Projects, Radioisotopes and Pharmaceutical Business Sustainability, Advanced Manufacturing, Nuclear and Related Technology Applications, Energy Projects as well as Waste Projects.
The OSCAR-5 reactor analysis platform
The OSCAR-5 system aims to allow for multi-code, multi-physics support for reactor analysis, with the primary aim to allow the use of fit-for-purpose tools in support of reactor operations. This implies finding a balance between the nature of a specific calculational application and the level of detail and fidelity utilized in achieving the result. The OSCAR-5 system is built around the concept of a code-independent, consistent reactor core model. This model is deployable to an extendable set of integrated target codes and manages the passing of data between these target codes. Currently fully coupled to the system is our in-house OSCAR-5 nodal package, Serpent and MCNP.
