Thermal analysis experiment for elucidating sodium-water chemical reaction mechanism in steam generator of sodium-cooled fast reactor

Kikuchi, Shin  ; Kurihara, Akikazu ; Ohshima, Hiroyuki

For the purpose of elucidating the mechanism of the sodium-water surface reaction in a steam generator of sodium-cooled fast reactors, kinetic study of the sodium (Na)-sodium hydroxide (NaOH) reaction has been carried out by using Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) technique. The parameters, including melting points of Na and NaOH, transition temperature of NaOH, Na-NaOH reaction temperature, and the decomposition temperature of sodium hydride (NaH) have been identified from DTA curves. Based on the measured reaction temperature, rate constant of sodium monoxide (NaO) generation was obtained. Thermal analysis results indicated that NaO generation at the secondary overall reaction would be considered during the sodium-water reaction.