Subscale maturation of advanced reactor technologies (SMART): A path forward for nuclear thermal propulsion fuel and reactor development
Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP) systems are actively being developed for future crewed missions to Mars. NTP systems excel in missions where both high thrust and high specific impulse are required, but modern NTP systems currently do not have a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) high enough for use in crewed space exploration. TRLs are used to demonstrate the level of rigor with which a component/system has been tested/demonstrated for its intended use. While space systems technology in general must be qualified as a unit, nuclear technology must be first demonstrated to meet qualification level requirements both at the fuel (component) level and the reactor (subsystem) level. Here, in this paper, historic NTP development programs are surveyed to identify a testing and development strategy that can be effectively implemented to allow for NTP reactor development. Based on this strategy, required facilities to enable such activities are identified. Current domestic experimental capabilities to support NTP qualification are limited to separate effects testing of individual components. Separate effects testing is found extensively in historic NTP development efforts but is not sufficient for full fuel and reactor qualification. Combined effects testing allows for an accurate assessment of fuel performance but is not achievable for NTP conditions in existing facilities. Assessment of historic development programs suggests that an intermediate, subscale test facility is necessary to advance NTP TRLs. A solution to meet this need is proposed, namely the Subscale Maturation of Advanced Reactor Technologies (SMART) facility. SMART will mitigate risk to NTP development by enabling performance and reactor physics demonstrations of NTP subsystems. A SMART facility could be built by modifying existing nuclear test facilities, which may potentially enable schedule and cost savings. To pursue reactor qualification beyond the subscale, a new ground test facility will be necessary. This ground test facility should be developed concurrently with SMART to allow for the facility to be operational in time for expedited NTP engine demonstration.