Hydrogen generation during fuel/coolant interactions

Journal Article · Sun Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1989 · Nuclear Science and Engineering; (USA)

OSTI ID:5579726

Young, M F; Berman, M ^[1]; Pong, L T ^[2]

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1. Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (USA)
2. Technadyne Engineering Consultants, Inc., Albuquerque, NM (USA)

During a severe nuclear plant accident, molten fuel can contact water in the core region, the lower plenum, or in the cavity below the reactor vessel. The interactions that take place can vary from benign boiling to explosive vaporization. If the fuel contains a metallic component, rapid oxidation of the metal can occur during the fuel/coolant interaction (FCI). The hydrogen generated from this reaction can increase the threat to containment integrity. Experiments have been conducted with 10 to 20 kg of two kinds of thermite-generated molten fuel stimulants: corium and iron-aluminum oxide. The experiments are described in this paper and predictions are made based on experimental observations.

• OSTI ID: 5579726
• Journal Information: Nuclear Science and Engineering; (USA), Journal Name: Nuclear Science and Engineering; (USA) Vol. 98:1; ISSN 0029-5639; ISSN NSENA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

22 GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS
220200 -- Nuclear Reactor Technology-- Components & Accessories
220300 -- Nuclear Reactor Technology-- Fuel Elements
220900* -- Nuclear Reactor Technology-- Reactor Safety
ACCIDENTS
CALCULATION METHODS
EXPLOSIONS
FRAGMENTATION
FUEL-COOLANT INTERACTIONS
HYDROGEN PRODUCTION
NUCLEAR FACILITIES
NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS
POWER PLANTS
REACTOR ACCIDENTS
REACTOR COMPONENTS
REACTOR CORES
REACTOR SAFETY EXPERIMENTS
THERMAL POWER PLANTS