Are there any books about the history of reactor physics?

In summary, there are historical books on nuclear energy and reactor technology, but there does not seem to be a specific book on the history of reactor physics. However, one can get a general idea of its development through textbooks and books on related subjects. The codes and methods in reactor physics are mostly proprietary, making it difficult to find detailed information on their development.
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Hello,everyone
is there any book about a history of reactor physics ?
Thank you for your help
 
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googlefans said:
Hello,everyone
is there any book about a history of reactor physics ?
Thank you for your help
There are some historical books on nuclear energy and reactor technology, but I don't believe there is such a book on the discipline of reactor physics. One might be able to get a general idea from old and new textbooks regarding the development of transport theory and diffusion theory.

An early book of the subject of nuclear energy is Samuel Glasstone's Sourcebook on Atomic Energy, D. Van Nostrand Co., 1950, 1958.

Glasstone authored and co-authored books on reactor technology and reactor physics, e.g.,
Samuel Glasstone and Alexander Sesonske, Nuclear Reactor Engineering, D. Van Nostrand Co., 1955, 1963.
and
George I. Bell, Samuel Glasstone, Nuclear Reactor Theory, Van Nostrand Reinhold Company, Litton Educational Publishing, Inc, 1970
http://www.osti.gov/scitech/biblio/4074688

Most of the codes and methods in reactor physics are proprietary (trade secret), and the development is not published. Some results might be published, but the details are limited, particularly with respect to the equations and solution methods. The methods require a lattice code for developing a model for each assembly, and then a core simulation code, which solves for the reactor power distribution, coolant conditions (some of which is input), fuel system and coolant temperature, and fuel depletion (with fission product and transuranic generation). Modern day codes are much more sophisticated than early codes due to profound developments in microprocessor technology and memory capacity.
 

Related to Are there any books about the history of reactor physics?

1. What is reactor physics?

Reactor physics is a branch of nuclear engineering and physics that deals with the design, analysis, and operation of nuclear reactors. It involves understanding the behavior of nuclear materials and their interactions within a reactor system.

2. Why is understanding the history of reactor physics important?

Studying the history of reactor physics allows us to understand the development of nuclear technology and the advancements made in reactor design and safety. It also provides insights into the challenges and solutions that have been encountered in the past, which can inform future developments in the field.

3. Are there any books that cover the early history of reactor physics?

Yes, there are several books that cover the early history of reactor physics, including "The History of Nuclear Energy" by J. W. Murray and "The History of Nuclear Energy" by Ronald Doel.

4. What topics are typically covered in books about the history of reactor physics?

Books about the history of reactor physics typically cover the development of nuclear energy, the discovery and understanding of nuclear fission, the early experiments and designs of nuclear reactors, and the major milestones and events in the field.

5. Are there any recent books that discuss the history of reactor physics?

Yes, there are several recent books that discuss the history of reactor physics, including "The History of the Development of Nuclear Power Reactors" by Robert W. Gillette and "A Short History of Nuclear Fission" by J.M. Fisher and E.P. Teller.

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