Vol. 61 No. 4 (2024)   Nuclear Energy
Technical Papers

Development of Multi-purpose Microreactor
- Challenge to All-solid-state Core -

TADAKATSU YODO
SHOHEI OTSUKI
YASUTAKA HARAI
MIZUKI YAMADA
TAKASHI HONDA
TAKESHI KOIKE

Microreactor is an innovative nuclear reactor that provides new value distinct from conventional land-based power generation reactors. Key features include compact size, portability, and inherent safety, enabling its use in regions with underdeveloped power grids. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. is developing a multi-purpose modular microreactor that addresses diverse needs. This study examines the safety and core concepts of all-solid-state core featured in this microreactor. Thermal transport simulations confirmed that adopting highly oriented graphite, a high-thermal-conductivity material, as the core material ensures adequate heat transfer from the core to the power generation system under normal operating conditions.