Duration
26h Th, 26h Pr
Number of credits
Lecturer
Language(s) of instruction
English language
Organisation and examination
Teaching in the second semester
Schedule
Units courses prerequisite and corequisite
Prerequisite or corequisite units are presented within each program
Learning unit contents
The course Nuclear Power Plant consists in an introduction to the different techniques related the nuclear based power generation. It begins with an introduction presenting the different fondamental concepts such as the neutron diffusion, the neutron moderation/absorption, nuclear fission... It continues with the following chapters:
- different types of nucleat power plant,
- nuclear fuel life cycle,
- reactor kinetics,
- nuclear reactor design,
- dynamics of pressurized water reactor,
- thermohydraulics,
- radioprotection and
- nuclear fusion.
Learning outcomes of the learning unit
At the end of the course, the student is familiar with the concepts underlying the production of electricity from nuclear energy. They are able to understand the operation and operating principles of a nuclear power plant. They are aware of the safety and security risks inherent in the nuclear sector.
The student also acquires knowledge of the different types of nuclear power plants currently in operation and the various types of nuclear fuel used. They are also able to understand and address the societal challenges associated with the operation of nuclear reactors.
Prerequisite knowledge and skills
This course is intended as an introduction to nuclear engineering and does not require any mandatory prerequisites. However, an understanding of the thermodynamic cycles used for heat-to-work conversion (e.g. the Rankine cycle or Brayton cycle) will facilitate a better understanding of the course.
Basic knowledge of physics, chemistry, and mathematics at the bachelor's level in engineering sciences is nevertheless necessary to follow the course effectively.
Planned learning activities and teaching methods
The course is taught in person through 12 four-hour sessions. A site visit is also organized, with the practical arrangements communicated at the beginning of the course.
Mode of delivery (face to face, distance learning, hybrid learning)
Face-to-face course
Further information:
The course is taught from February to April through in-person sessions lasting a maximum of four hours. The theoretical concepts are illustrated with practical examples throughout the course. There are no dedicated exercise sessions.
Additional information:
For the 2026-2027 academic year, the course is held on Tuesday mornings from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Course materials and recommended or required readings
Lecture slides and podcasts are made available electronically to students through the platform eCampus.
The first and second session exams are made of a single written exam (theory and exercise).
Work placement(s)
Organisational remarks and main changes to the course
This is an elective course and will only be offered if at least 10 students register.
Students interested in taking this course must express their interest by sending an email to p.dewallef@uliege.be before 22 January 2027, indicating their first name, last name, and ULiège student ID number.
Confirmation as to whether the course will be offered will be provided by 29 January 2027. If the course goes ahead, classes will begin from 2 February 2027 onwards.
Contacts
For any information, you can contact Prof. Pierre Dewallef by mail (p.dewallef@uliege.be) or by phone to 04/366.99.95.