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Thermal interactions between molten uranium dioxide and water: an experimental study using thermite generated uranium dioxide

Journal Article · · J. Heat Transfer; (United States)
OSTI ID:5273754
Results are reported of an experimental investigation of thermal interaction involving molten uranium dioxide and water; materials of particular interest in LWR safety studies. Quantities of 0.5 kg of thermite generated molten uranium dioxide were released under water within a closed pressure vessel. Spontaneous and triggered MFCI were observed which for the small fraction of molten material involved (-6%) gave efficiencies of the order of 6% of the optimum Hicks Menzies value but with a maximum of 13%. Yields and efficiencies decreased with increasing coolant subcooling, and the yield of triggered interactions decreased with increasing delay of triggering. A characteristic time for heat transfer, also a function of subcooling, was of the order of 0.8 ms. 4 refs.
Research Organization:
UKAEA, Dorchester, Dorset, England
OSTI ID:
5273754
Report Number(s):
CONF-811101-
Journal Information:
J. Heat Transfer; (United States), Journal Name: J. Heat Transfer; (United States) Vol. 19; ISSN JHTRA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English