Computer models for fuel element behaviour

Abstract

Al~traet. Over the past 20 years computer modelling of fuel performance has developed into a well-established procedure, which has been valuable in the understanding and the improvement of fuel rod behaviour. The range of computer models presently applied to cylindrical ceramic fuels is reviewed. A critical appraisal is made of the numerical techniques used for mechanical and thermal analysis. The necessity for benchmark calculations is emphasized and various approaches for model validation are discussed. A number of special topics are chosen for deeper discussion. These include: improved description of cladding deformation and the estimation of failure; the analysis of stress concentrations in the cladding; fission gas analysis; and chemical modelling. Finally some speculation is made on the future of fuel rod modelling.

Simulations of coupled heat transport, oxygen diffusion, and thermal expansion in UO2 nuclear fuel elements

“…Recent reviews of fuel performance codes [15,16] demonstrate that extrapolating materials properties to high burn-up values is a challenging task. Predicting the thermal, mechanical and chemical phenomena in the fuel element is even more challenging.…”