Mark G Watts

Title: Mark G. Watts and Xenon Suppression in Nuclear Power Generation.

Introduction

Mark G. Watts is an inventor associated with Linavady, Great Britain. His recorded patent work concerns managing xenon poisoning in a nuclear-fueled electric power generation system. He is associated with Westinghouse Electric Corporation.

Latest Patents

The available information identifies one patent associated with Watts: “Xenon Suppression in a Nuclear Fueled Electric Power Generation System.” The invention addresses the reduction in reactor performance caused by xenon poisoning, which can prevent a negative power coefficient reactor from sustaining full power at equilibrium.

The patent describes cycling the electrical load when xenon poisoning makes continuous full-power operation impractical. By varying the load, the system induces changes in xenon concentration that are out of phase with power demand, allowing full power to be maintained during at least part of the day. One approach progressively reduces power by a preset amount each night. Another uses a xenon suppression controller to forecast xenon reactivity based on reactor history, current flux, and a planned load schedule, then determine a reduced power level that allows a return to full power at a selected time.

Career Highlights

Watts’s documented patent contribution focuses on coordinating reactor operation with changing xenon concentrations. The proposed methods aim to support power scheduling while reducing the fissile inventory required for operation. The available information does not provide further details about his career or other inventions.

Collaborations

Watts is associated with Westinghouse Electric Corporation. His listed coworker is Robert F. Barry.

Conclusion

Mark G. Watts’s recorded patent work presents methods for managing xenon poisoning through planned load cycling and reactor control, linking nuclear operating conditions with the timing of electricity generation.