Directed percolation in nuclear safety

Abstract

Neutron behavior in a nuclear reactor is described using a directed percolation model. The preferred direction is created by time-oriented neutron generations. Using the time required to reach a dangerous neutron flux limit or reactor power limit as an example, it is shown that, in certain situations, the proposed approach can detect events hazardous to reactor safety that are undetectable by traditional reactor safety systems. The capabilities and limitations of the proposed approach are outlined.