An experimental investigation of the effects of surfactants on the severity of vapor explosions

Journal Article · Mon Nov 01 04:00:00 EST 1993 · Nuclear Science and Engineering; (United States)

OSTI ID:5743677

Kowal, M G ^[1]; Dowling, M F; Abdel-Khalik, S I ^[2]

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1. Northeast Utilities, Berlin, CT (United States)
2. Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA (United States)

Dilute aqueous solutions of two surface active agents (surfactants) were tested for their ability to suppress spontaneous steam explosions in molten tin/water systems. At 800C, 12 g of tin were dropped into aqueous solutions of a nonionic surfactant (nonylphenol polyethylene glycol ether) and an ionic surfactant (dodecylbenzene sulfonate sodium salt) with concentrations of 5, 10, and 50 wppm. The data indicate that surfactants reduce the severity of steam explosions. On average, the surfactant solutions resulted in a 65% reduction in average peak pressures when compared with the deionized water results. However, very little difference in the mitigating effect of the surfactant solutions was observed as the concentration was increased beyond 5 wppm. Particle-size distribution results also indicated a mitigating effect on steam explosion severity, as a 19% reduction in participating melt mass fraction was observed when the surfactants were used.

• OSTI ID: 5743677
• Journal Information: Nuclear Science and Engineering; (United States), Journal Name: Nuclear Science and Engineering; (United States) Vol. 115:3; ISSN NSENAO; ISSN 0029-5639
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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