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Ceramic nuclear fuel mechanical resistance development by means of dynamic impact testing
H H S Santana1, G Maier, J Ródenas
1Department of Chemical and Nuclear Engineering, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, Valencia, Spain. hessacsa@posgrado.upv.es
Summary
Higher density uranium dioxide (UO2) pellets resist impacts better, reducing chipping during fuel production. However, even low impact angles caused significant weight loss, indicating a need for careful handling to prevent pellet damage.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Pellet chipping is linked to cladding cracks in commercial reactors.
- Chipping occurs during various stages of uranium dioxide (UO2) pellet production due to dynamic impacts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the chipping behavior of UO2 pellets.
- To understand the relationship between pellet density, impact angle, and chipping.
Main Methods:
- Experimental investigation of UO2 pellet chipping.
- Controlled impact testing at various angles.
- Measurement of pellet weight loss as an indicator of chipping.
Main Results:
- Pellets with higher density exhibited greater resistance to impacts.
- A significant pellet weight loss was observed at the lowest impact angle tested.
Conclusions:
- Optimizing pellet density is crucial for minimizing chipping during production.
- Impact angle significantly influences chipping, with low angles causing substantial material loss.
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