Shutdown (nuclear reactor)

In the context of a nuclear reactor, "shutdown" refers to the process of bringing the reactor to a safe, non-operational state. This can involve several steps and measures to ensure that the reactor can no longer sustain a nuclear fission reaction. The shutdown process is critical for safety, maintenance, and regulatory compliance. ### Key Aspects of Shutdown in a Nuclear Reactor: 1. **Control Rod Insertion**: Most commonly, shutdown involves the insertion of control rods into the reactor core.