An agent-based framework for fuel cycle simulation with recycling

Matthew J. Gidden, Paul P.H. Wilson, Kathryn D. Huff, Robert W. Carlsen

Research output: Contribution to conferencePaperpeer-review

Abstract

Simulation of the nuclear fuel cycle is an established field with multiple players. Prior development work has utilized techniques such as system dynamics to provide a solution structure for the matching of supply and demand in these simulations. In general, however, simulation infrastructure development has occured in relatively closed circles, each effort having unique considerations as to the cases which are desired to be modeled. Accordingly, individual simulators tend to have their design decisions driven by specific use cases. Presented in this work is a proposed supply and demand matching algorithm that leverages the techniques of the well-studied field of mathematical programming. A generic approach is achieved by treating facilities as individual entities and actors in the supply-demand market which denote preferences amongst commodities. Using such a framework allows for varying levels of interaction fidelity, ranging from low-fidelity, quick solutions to high-fidelity solutions that model individual transactions (e.g. at the fuel-assembly level). The power of the technique is that it allows such flexibility while still treating the problem in a generic manner, encapsulating simulation engine design decisions in such a way that future simulation requirements can be relatively easily added when needed.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages1425-1436
Number of pages12
StatePublished - 2013
Externally publishedYes
EventInternational Nuclear Fuel Cycle Conference: Nuclear Energy at a Crossroads, GLOBAL 2013 - Salt Lake City, UT, United States
Duration: Sep 29 2013Oct 3 2013

Other

OtherInternational Nuclear Fuel Cycle Conference: Nuclear Energy at a Crossroads, GLOBAL 2013
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySalt Lake City, UT
Period9/29/1310/3/13

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Energy Engineering and Power Technology
  • Nuclear Energy and Engineering

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'An agent-based framework for fuel cycle simulation with recycling'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this