Radiation shielding optimization of space reactor based on intelligent decision support system

BackgroundThe mass of a space nuclear power system is a critical parameter due to limitation of loading and high cost of transportation. The radiation shielding system is one of the main contributions of the self-weight of the space nuclear power system.PurposeThis study aims at the shielding optimization problem for the mass minimization of space nuclear power system.MethodsFirstly, the calculation model for the Topaz-II space stack was established and the shielding material was selected. Secondly, a masked multi-objective optimization model was built on the base of Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm-II (NSGA-II) to obtain an optimization scheme. Then, an intelligent decision support system for the shielding scheme to improve the optimization efficiency was established by coupling the BP neural network algorithm. Finally, the adjustment plan was obtained according to the intelligent decision support system, and verified by using Topaz-II space reactor model.ResultsVerification results show that the intelligent decision support system can be used to set up a basic theoretical model according to the actual needs of the project, and finally provide a space stack shielding scheme that meets the engineering needs.ConclusionsThe validity and feasibility of the method in this paper are proved, providing theoretical and technical support for the optimization of radiation shielding of space reactors.