Characterization of the DHC Crack Parameters in Zirconium Alloys

Abstract

"Zirconium alloys are used in heavy water-cooled reactors due to their low thermal neutron capture cross-section and good mechanical and corrosion properties. At the beginning of their operation, hydrogen was identified as an embrittlement agent. The source of the embrittlement was hydride precipitates that formed as platelets. Hydrides were associated with the cracks and the process was called Delayed Hydride Cracking – DHC. This research aims to develop a reproducible procedure concerning DHC KIH parameter measurements on Zirconium claddings, by using the Pin Loading Test (PLT) technique. Experimental activities including sample preparation, adding hydrogen, testing and results are presented in detail. "