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Nuclear Energy Systems
Kernenergiesysteme
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:06:24
Abstract
Fundamentals of construction, function, design and operation of nuclear power plants, types of nuclear reactors, fuel supply, nuclear fuel cycle, and disposal of nuclear waste. Role of nuclear power generation in Switzerland and worldwide.
Objective
Students get an overview on energy conversion in nuclear power plants, on construction and function of the most important types of nuclear reactors with special emphasis to light water reactors. They obtain the mathematical/physical basis for quantitative assessments concerning most relevant aspects of design, dynamic behaviour as well as material and energy flows.
Content
Nuclear physics of fission and chain reaction. Themodynamics of nuclear reactors. Design of the rector core. Introduction into the dynamic behaviour of nuclear reactors. Overview on types of nuclear reactors, difference between thermal reactors and fast breaders. Construction and operation of nuclear power plants with pressurized and boiling water reactors, role and function of the most important safety systems, special features of the energy conversion. Development tendencies of rector technology. Nuclear fuel ressources in the world, nuclear fuel supply, material flows, reprocessing, interim storage and concepts for final disposal of nuclear waste. Overview on nuclear energy in the world and in Switzerland in particular.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Hand-outs will be distributed.
Literature
Dieter Smidt: Reaktortechnik, Band 1 und Band 2, G. Braun Karlsruhe, 1971.
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- DS , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- oral 30 minutes
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture |
Kernenergiesysteme
English language can be required.
|
|
2 h weekly |
| exercise |
Kernenergiesysteme
Andere Uebungstermine können abgesprochen werden.
|
|
1 h weekly |