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Characterization of spent nuclear fuel canister surface roughness using surface replicating molds
B L Nation1, J L Faubel2, G T Vice3
1Nuclear Energy Fuel Cycle Storage and Transportation Technology, Sandia National Laboratories, 1515 Eubank Blvd SE, Albuquerque, NM, 87123, USA.
Scientific Reports
|October 1, 2024
Summary
A new replication method accurately measures surface roughness on difficult-to-access samples, like spent nuclear fuel canisters. This technique aids in understanding surface features and supports nuclear waste management programs.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nuclear Engineering
- Surface Metrology
Background:
- Direct surface analysis is often impossible for samples like spent nuclear fuel canisters.
- Surface roughness is critical for understanding dust deposition and material aging in storage.
- Developing non-destructive evaluation techniques is essential for nuclear waste management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a replication method for determining surface roughness and features on challenging samples.
- To demonstrate the method's application on a spent nuclear fuel dry storage canister.
- To assess the accuracy and usability of different molding materials.
Main Methods:
- Material down-selection identified Polytek PlatSil23-75 as the optimal molding agent.
- Surface roughness standards (ISO grades N3-N8) were molded to evaluate replica accuracy.
- A 3D printed cell was used to sample various locations on a stainless steel spent nuclear fuel canister.
Main Results:
- The replication method accurately reproduced average roughness (Ra) but overestimated maximum roughness (Rz).
- Measurements revealed surface roughness variations across the canister, including specific features like welds and grind marks.
- Polytek PlatSil23-75 demonstrated good usability and accurate surface representation.
Conclusions:
- The developed replication method provides a viable approach for analyzing surfaces inaccessible to conventional techniques.
- This technique supports the development of aging management programs for dry storage canisters.
- The method is broadly applicable to various surfaces beyond stainless steel for profilometry analysis.
