Abstract:
The Fast Breeder Test Reactor is a sodium cooled, loop type of reactor, operating since 1985 at the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam, India. FBTR uses a unique, high Pu carbide fuel which has seen a peak burn-up of 155 GWd/t without clad failure. This paper gives an overview of the core evolution, operating experience, experiments carried out and the challenges faced in two decades of FBTR operation.