In liquid sodium environments like those proposed for next-generation sodium fast reactors (SFRs), the presence of impurities in the sodium, particularly chemical species containing oxygen, can lead to increased corrosion on sodium-wetted components. It is important to monitor oxygen concentration in the sodium melt, but temperatures of 500 ℃ and...
A model of the Oregon State TRIGA reactor was developed in Serpent 2 by translating a previously accepted MCNP model. Both models were verified and validated via comparison of each model and data gathered from the core start-up. Reactivity bias in each code was determined. Using the rod drop method,...
Irradiation experiments are a critical aspect of the nuclear fuels and materials qualification process. Determining the flow conditions of these experiments is necessary for understanding response of nuclear components during transient and normal operation. Quality flow data is lacking for cartridge-type irradiation experiments with annular flow natural circulation designs. Data...
Metallic nuclear fuels have long been studied for use in advanced nuclear reactors, with efforts invested in improving the viability of metallic nuclear fuel elements and overall safety of advanced reactor design concepts. During reactor operations, fuel forms undergo restructuring due to a variety of physical phenomena. Expansion of the...
Advanced reactor designs offer many advantages over typical Light Water Reactors (LWRs) including fast neutron capability, passive safety features, and improved performance. While the future for these reactors seems promising, operating and test experience is necessary to further validate such claims. The development of full-scale facilities has proved to be...
The United States currently has no infrastructure to provide a fast neutron flux for research purposes. With the increased interest in Sodium Fast Reactor (SFR) technology, this type of infrastructure is necessary for further development of key components such as Versatile Test Reactor. The purpose of this research is to...
Vibration of nuclear fuel rods is an area of significance for the long-term safe operation of any nuclear power plant. One mechanism of vibration, flow induced vibration (FIV), must be quantified when designing a new core, such as a sodium fast reactor which employs helically-wrapped wire spacers. Experimental work undertaken...
Unlike other industries, overall efficiency of construction projects has been growing minimally which directly causes cost overruns of projects. Though reducing idle time and increasing operational efficiency of construction equipment could result in significant cost saving, there is lack of practical knowledge of adjusting operational efficiency and integrating cost and...
Power transient boiling has been studied for decades, however, the mechanistic understanding of phenomena which occur during such an event remains incomplete. Due to a dearth of systematic researches, the information of studied phenomenon, detailed physics and applicable hypothesis are very limited. Transient critical heat flux (CHF) is paramount in...
The subject of fluid-structure interactions (FSI) are a matter concerning the design of any element immersed in a fluid. One of the most critical phenomena embedded within the scope of FSI is the creation of vortex-induced vibrations (VIV). These type of vibrations originate in a given body as a result...