R&D and Pre-Normative Needs for Generation IV Nuclear Reactors

The development of new generations of fission reactors requires the study of a new series of standards to cover the gap between actual codes and the needs generated by this kind of plants (Generation IV systems). Specific issues relate to high operating temperature of gas cooled reactors (above 700°C with a goal of 1000°C) and high fast neutron fluence on core structure in fast reactors. Material standards need to be updated to cover this temperature range and new materials need to be developed too. Also the resistance of materials submitted to irradiation is to be increased. This work draws the attention on what parts of Generation IV pressure equipments are not covered by existing codes and thus require specific normative measures.