Recent results from LOCA study at JAERI

Nagase, Fumihisa ; Fuketa, Toyoshi

With a view to obtaining basic data to evaluate high burnup fuel behavior under loss of coolant accident (LOCA) conditions, a research program is being conducted at the Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute (JAERI). The program consists of integral thermal shock tests and other separate tests for oxidation rate and mechanical property of fuel claddings. Prior to the tests on irradiated claddings, the tests have been conducted on non-irradiated claddings to examine separate effects of corrosion and hydrogen absorption during reactor operation. Hydrogen effects have been especially examined because hydrogen absorption has the great impact on cladding embrittlement. The tests on irradiated claddings have recently been started and preliminary results have been obtained. The present paper summarizes recent results from those studies.