High-sensitivity dissolved-gas monitoring system with applications for PWR secondary-side chemistry
The development and application of a novel dissolved gas measurement technique is described in this report. The technique is based on chromatography of gases stripped from water solution. The method is significantly more sensitive than earlier gas detection techniques, sub-ppb dissolved gas levels being well within the measurement capability of the system. The system was originally conceived to determine gas transport in the PWR secondary cycle. As such, its capabilities for separating the components of air, viz., nitrogen, oxygen, and argon, were emphasized. In its latest configuration, the instrument is also capable of detecting other species such as hydrogen, carbon dioxide, and low-molecular-weight hydrocarbons. The ability to monitor argon quantitatively has been of real value for determining air inleakage in the low-pressure section of the secondary cycle, using this minor component of air as a chemically inert tracer. Several illustrative examples of applications of the dissolved gas measurement system are included in this report. The methodology and test results provide an indication of the value and range of applicability of the method. An appendix containing complete installation and operating instructions for the device is also included. The report thus becomes a useful source of information for those planning dissolved gas studies, leak detection programs, or other work with the dissolved gas measurement system.
- Research Organization:
- Radiological and Chemical Technology, Inc., San Jose, CA (USA)
- OSTI ID:
- 5708757
- Report Number(s):
- EPRI-NP-4564; ON: TI86920328; TRN: 86-018782
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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PWR TYPE REACTORS
SECONDARY COOLANT CIRCUITS
DISSOLVED GASES
MONITORING
GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY
OXYGEN
CHROMATOGRAPHY
COOLING SYSTEMS
ELEMENTS
ENERGY SYSTEMS
FLUIDS
GASES
NONMETALS
REACTOR COMPONENTS
REACTOR COOLING SYSTEMS
REACTORS
SEPARATION PROCESSES
SOLUTES
WATER COOLED REACTORS
WATER MODERATED REACTORS
210200* - Power Reactors
Nonbreeding
Light-Water Moderated
Nonboiling Water Cooled