Development and use of the IVV-2M fuel assembly

The design and performance of a fuel assembly, intended for use in the water cooled and moderated IVV-2M research reactor and consisting of dioxide dispersed in an aluminium alloy matrix encased in an aluminium alloy can, is presented. Experimental and theoretical studies included neutron characteristics of the reactor core, thermohydraulic behavior, and thermal neutron flux distribution. Data are also presented on the specific charge in u 235, the metal to water volume ratio, the specific heat removal surface, and maximum power of the assembly.