Asymptotic Stability of Coupled-Core Reactors with Arbitrary Reactivity Feedback and No Coupling Time Lag

The question of general asymptotic stability is considered for N-order coupled-core reactors neglecting neutron coupling time lag, but with general nonlinear reactivity functionals. Stability criteria, applicable to models with reactivity coupling effects, are established. As an illustration of the general results, the linear reactivity feedback model is investigated. In particular, a two-node model with temperature coupling effects is discussed in more detail.