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DOE OSTI · 3740764

Used Nuclear Fuel Management Using the Next Generation System Analysis Model

Craig, Brian [Argonne National Laboratory (ANL)]·Vander Wal, Lucas [Argonne National Laboratory (ANL)]·Gadey, Harish [Idaho National Laboratory (INL)]·Joseph III, Robby [ORNL] (ORCID:0000000203439129)·Narvaez, Jorge [U.S. Department of Energy, Washington, DC]
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Abstract

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is leading the National effort to manage the back end of the nuclear fuel cycle, encompassing the safe transportation, storage/staging, and/or eventual disposal of used nuclear fuel (UNF) and high-level radioactive waste. The Next Generation System Analysis Model (NGSAM) is DOE’s discrete-event, agent-based simulation tool designed to model the full life cycle of UNF from reactor discharge to final disposal. NGSAM supports the DOE Office of Spent Fuel and High-Level Waste Disposition by enabling a detailed, scenario-based analysis of logistics, infrastructure, and shipping strategies. NGSAM replaces legacy models with a modern, flexible platform built on Repast Simphony and enhanced by the Process Analysis Tool. NGSAM simulates the movement and interaction of individual fuel assemblies with system components such as canisters, casks, railcars, and facilities. The model integrates with the Java Transportation Operations Model to plan and execute transportation scenarios, supporting both constrained and unconstrained resource allocation. Key features include customizable allocation and acceptance algorithms, detailed facility-level operations, and a Quick Edit tool for rapid scenario adjustments. NGSAM supports multimodal transportation modeling (e.g. rail, road, barge) and provides comprehensive cost, schedule, and infrastructure data. NGSAM utilizes data from sources such as DOE’s STANDARDS UNF database and DOE’s Stakeholder Tool for Assessing Radioactive Transportation, while also allowing user-defined inputs for scenario customization. NGSAM enables stakeholders to evaluate complex UNF management strategies, assess system performance under varying assumptions, and inform decision making for future infrastructure investments. Its modular architecture and integration with other Integrated Waste Management System tools make it a critical asset for planning the safe and efficient disposition of the Nation’s growing UNF inventory.

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Craig, Brian [Argonne National Laboratory (ANL)], Vander Wal, Lucas [Argonne National Laboratory (ANL)], Gadey, Harish [Idaho National Laboratory (INL)], Joseph III, Robby [ORNL] (ORCID:0000000203439129), Narvaez, Jorge [U.S. Department of Energy, Washington, DC]. 2026-07-01. Used Nuclear Fuel Management Using the Next Generation System Analysis Model. https://doi.org/10.1080/00295450.2026.2669436

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