Design and optimization of the components of a molten salt, thorium-fueled accelerator driven system

Molten Salt Accelerator-Driven Systems (MoSTADS) have been attracting a lot of research interest lately due to their unique characteristics and advantages, including reduced radiation damage of the fuel, and stable operation achieved through online fuel feeding process. Simulations of an experimental molten salt test facility being developed in the Thermal Hydraulic Research Laboratory (THRL) at Texas A&M University, were conducted using Monte Carlo radiation transport methods, to design and optimize selected components of the system. The system consists of a proton beam generated by an accelerator, impinging on a target to generate neutrons, which can be used induce fission reactions within a thorium fueled, high-temperature molten salt forced convection test loop. Parametric studies were performed to optimize several key components of the system including target material, proton beam energy, target thickness and location, and reflector thickness. Furthermore, in order to ensure the safe operation of the facility, parametric studies were also performed to identify the composition and thickness of the system shielding that would be needed to satisfy acceptable exposure limits.