Parametric Evaluation of SiC/SiC Composite Cladding with UO2 Fuel for LWR Applications: Fuel Rod Interactions and Impact of Nonuniform Power Profile in Fuel Rod

Extended Enrichment Accident Tolerant LWR Fuel Isotopic and Lattice Parameter Trends

“…[Kim et al 2016] A study has shown that because of the irradiation swelling behavior of SIC/SiC composites, the cladding may exhibit significant lateral bowing under typical neutron flux and temperature gradients. [Singh et al 2018] As this structural technology matures, further modeling evaluation and performance confirmation will be required.…”

HFIR SiC Bowing Test Ready to Insert

“…Therefore, spatial variations in neutron flux are expected to be more likely to result in significant channel box bowing than spatial variations in temperature. Previous work has shown that circumferential temperature variations in SiC/SiC fuel cladding of up to 8% can result in lateral bowing of 6.2 mm [27].…”

Systematic Technology Evaluation Program for SiC-based BWR Channel Box

“…The motivation for SiC-based fuel cladding is not only its accident tolerance but also its anticipated additional benefits compared with Zr alloys: smaller neutron absorption cross sections, general chemical inertness, ability to withstand higher neutron doses and higher temperatures, lack of progressive irradiation growth, and low induced activation/low decay heat [4]. Importantly, recent efforts toward the development of SiC-based cladding have significantly advanced the fabrication of SiC composite tubes [5], in-pile performance analysis capability [6][7][8], and understanding of the thermomechanical properties of SiC tubes [9]. Although SiC-based cladding appears to be attractive, critical feasibility issues remain: (1) hydrothermal corrosion, (2) retention of gas leak tightness under service environments, (3) development of a fuel performance modeling capability, and (4) fabrication of fulllength tubes in sufficient quality [3].…”