Nuclear fuels: design constraints, irradiation induced changes and end of cycle impact

Nuclear fuel is the material in which the fission reactions occur. As such, it has to support many constraints induced by heat generation, fission product creation, as well as interaction with the coolant. These constraints are taken into account and fulfilled by the design. However, during irradiation, many changes are known to occur. Among them, irradiation damage, OD oxidation and changes in chemical or physical characteristics are to be considered. In addition, intermediate storage adds new constraints that the fuel has to support. With emphasis on the water reactor fuels, by far the most important group, a review will be given of major points, focusing on a few specific areas. To cite this article: C. Lemaignan, C. R. Physique 3 (2002) 763–772.