[en] This paper presents the basic concepts and fundamental equations of the Thermodynamics with Finite Speed (TFS) resulted by the systematically study of the thermal reciprocating machine in relation with the piston finite speed and thermal molecular speed measured in the considered thermodynamic system. These concepts are based on the idea that any propagation of the interaction in the thermodynamic systems of finite dimensions is achieved by finite speeds: (1) - piston speed, (2) - average speed of the gas molecules inside the cylinder. A specific approach (scheme of calculation) for non-equilibrium (irreversible) thermodynamic processes is developed within TFS in order to find the fundamental equations appropriate for Optimizing Efficiency or COP and Power of thermal reciprocating machines. Analytical equations for all 5 irreversible thermodynamic processes in gases (isometric, isothermal, isobaric, adiabatic, polytropic) are deduced by integration of the combined First and Second Laws equation for processes with Finite Speed . This paper is limited to Irreversible Processes with Finite Speed, without taking into account the Friction and Throttling effects. It also notes the main moments in the development of TFS that led to these concepts and fundamental equations . (paper)

[en] INPRO objectives and status of the IAEA project started in 2001 and concerns the deployment of Innovative Nuclear Systems (INS) in 21st century, as solution to sustainable power development. The last achievements and the new INPRO Steering Committee directions established for 2010-2011 period, are presented. A balanced analysis of needs, resources and expectations, justifies the Romanian Statement at the 14th Steering Committee Meeting (SCM), and participant as an observer in three Collaborative Projects, in Common User Considerations (CUC) by Developing Countries for Future NPP and in SCM. The feedback of the last participatory actions in the project, justifies the Nuclear Agency recommendations for Nuclear National Program (PNN) adjustments: first, the need to apply INPRO methodology in a new national study regarding INS perspective and opportunity in Romania to use CANDU NPPs for LWRs fuel closing cycle at international level; secondly, the need to improve commitment of policy makers in forecasting financial INS support; and thirdly, to sustain the European legislation and international and national arrangements in order to facilitate nuclear regional services. (authors)