Functionally graded lattice cermet fuel structure with shape corresponding to a mathematically-based periodic solid, particularly for nuclear thermal propulsion

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United States of America Patent

PATENT NO 11817225
APP PUB NO 20220351870A1
SERIAL NO

17852434

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Abstract

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Nuclear propulsion fission reactor structure has an active core region including fuel element structures, a reflector with rotatable neutron absorber structures (such as drum absorbers), and a core former conformal mating the outer surface of the fuel element structures to the reflector. Fuel element structures are arranged abutting nearest neighbor fuel element structures in a tri-pitch design. Cladding bodies defining coolant channels are inserted into and joined to lower and upper core plates to from a continuous structure that is a first portion of the containment structure. The body of the fuel element has a structure with a shape corresponding to a mathematically-based periodic solid, such as a triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) in a gyroid structure. The nuclear propulsion fission reactor structure can be incorporated into a nuclear thermal propulsion engine for propulsion applications, such as space propulsion.

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Patent Owner(s)

Patent OwnerAddress
BWXT ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES LLCLYNCHBURG VA

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Inventor(s)

Inventor Name Address # of filed Patents Total Citations
Fisher, Benjamin D Lynchburg, US 34 70
Gramlich, Craig D Forest, US 12 12
Salasin, John R Lynchburg, US 13 10
Witter, Jonathan K Forest, US 9 5

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