Course Description
In this course we will study the basic role of fuel in reactor operation and understand how the fuel impacts heat generation and transport to the coolant. The course will begin with an overview of different fuels and the fabrication processes required to construct nuclear fuel. This will include various fuel types and geometries, with a focus on light water reactor fuel and cladding. Thermal transport, mechanics, and thermomechanics affecting fuel behavior will be introduced, and methods to solve the governing equations numerically and analytically will be developed. Subsequently, changes in the fuel and cladding material that degrade the performance of the fuel will be examined. Finally, the knowledge gained throughout the course will be utilized to conduct fuel performance simulations with MOOSE.
Spring 2026
Instructors
Meeting Patterns
Classes Start:
January 12, 2026
Classes End:
April 28, 2026
Location:
00327 111 Lampe Drive
Class Days:
T H
Class Start Time:
10:15am
Class End Time:
11:15am
Class Type:
Lecture
Credits:
3.00
Restrictions:
Corequisite: NE 409 or equivalent