Results from a multi-physics numerical benchmark for codes dedicated to molten salt fast reactors

Abstract

Verification and validation of multi-physics codes dedicated to fast-spectrum molten salt reactors (MSR) is a very challenging task. Existing benchmarks are meant for single-physics codes, while experimental data for validation are absent. This is concerning, given the importance numerical simulations have in the development of fast MSR designs. Here, we propose the use of a coupled numerical benchmark specifically designed to assess the physics-coupling capabilities of the aforementioned codes. The benchmark focuses on the specific characteristics of fast MSRs and features a step-by-step approach, where physical phenomena are gradually coupled to easily identify sources of error. We collect and compare the results obtained during the benchmarking campaign of four multi-physics tools developed within the SAMOFAR project. Results show excellent agreement for all the steps of the benchmark. The benchmark generality and the broad spectrum of results provided constitute a useful tool for the testing and development of similar multi-physics codes.