IF I want to research breeder reactors, do I go for NucEng or Nuclear Physics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the appropriate academic path for researching breeder reactors, specifically whether to pursue nuclear engineering or nuclear physics. The conversation touches on theoretical understanding, practical experience, and the challenges associated with breeder reactor technology.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest starting with specific literature related to breeder reactors.
  • One participant expresses a lack of direct experience with breeder reactors, noting that those built have not been very successful, while pointing out the availability of online resources.
  • Another participant recommends studying nuclear engineering, stating that most nuclear physicists focus on subatomic particles rather than reactor technology.
  • It is mentioned that while the nuclear physics of breeder reactors is well understood, the engineering challenges remain significant, suggesting a focus on nuclear engineering for research.
  • Specific courses in reactor physics, materials science, and fluid mechanics are proposed as relevant for those interested in breeder reactor research.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that nuclear engineering is the more suitable field for researching breeder reactors, but there is no consensus on the success of existing breeder reactors or the extent of understanding in the field.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions regarding the practical challenges of breeder reactors and the varying levels of expertise among participants in the discussion.

zheng89120
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zheng89120 said:
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If you want to research you should start reading the specific literature.
 
zheng89120 said:
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Hope you don't mean me. I know the theory but have no direct experience with breeders. And from my understanding the ones that have been built have not been all that successful. There do seem to be a lot of resources online so start there.
 
NUCENG said:
Hope you don't mean me. I know the theory but have no direct experience with breeders. And from my understanding the ones that have been built have not been all that successful. There do seem to be a lot of resources online so start there.
If so, here.
Unlike me many people here can answer on your questions regarding fission reactors.
I think that some of them are experts in this field.
 
I would recommend you study nuclear engineering.

Most nuclear physicists study the nucleus and other subatomic particles like quarks Some nuclear physicists are more applied science and work on nuclear reactors, but you won't find many.

There has been a lot of experience with breeder reactors. I am sure there are several things that need more understanding. Yet, they are a lot of engineering problems to increase the performance of breeders.
 
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The nuclear physics of breeder reactors is well understood.

The engineering aspects are more challenging. Study nuclear engineering if one wishes to do research concerning breeder reactors. Look at courses in reactor physics (neutron transport theory), materials science, mechanics of materials, fluid mechanics/dynamics, corrosion, . . .
 

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