Experiments for Validation and Enhancement of the REactor preSsure vessel fluence assessmenT

The safety of a nuclear reactor relies heavily on modelling.

In the last two decades, making use of the increased computer power available, advanced multi-physics solvers have been developed to reduce the level of conservatism when simulating pressurized water reactors. These tools rely on a first-principles based approach and produce solutions with a much finer spatial resolution.

However they are seldom used in practice due to, amongst other things, the lack of dedicated experimental data for validation, especially when it comes to their improved spatial resolution.The EVEREST project intends to address this issue by quantifying the impact of using advanced MP models for the modelling of a VVER reactor (""usefulness""); by demonstrating the accuracy of their results, especially the improved resolution through the production of dedicated experimental data (“trustworthiness”); and by promoting them to key groups of the nuclear engineering community (students, utilities, regulators).

The consortium is built around the necessary research facilities and expertise from all the required actors of the nuclear industry, both within Europe and outside.In terms of impact, the project will produce scientific knowledge towards producing electricity using a climate-neutral energy system, in a safe and efficient way.

The advanced models will provide more accurate and detailed information about the current safety margins in nuclear reactors enabling more informed decisions on setting the regulatory limits; and resulting in an improvement of the plant safety as a whole. A better understanding of the safety margins for a nuclear power plant could also allow power uprate.

The same approach can be envisioned for research reactors and allow more users to carry out research activities.

Finally, the EVEREST project will have a long-term impact on knowledge preservation through the organization of a summer school and trainings as well as the funding of mobility grants.