Increasing Approximate-Solution Accuracy by Using Perturbation Theory

Abstract

Methods based on the use of relations from perturbation theory are proposed for increasing the accuracy of the solutions of equations describing nonstationary processes occurring in reactors. The analysis is limited to the adiabatic approximation and slow variations of the properties of a reactor. Results are presented for the problem of fuel burnup for a two-zone model of a fast reactor where criticality is maintained by varying the concentration of a neutron absorber. The computational aspects of the method are discussed and the prospects for using the method in computational optimization software codes are discussed.