Mimicking Irradiation-Induced Cracking of Nuclear Graphite Using Bromine Intercalation

Abstract

Abstract Keyway root cracking and radiolytic weight loss in graphite moderated nuclear reactors may limit future successful operation of the civil nuclear fleet. A novel means of initiating fracture using internally generated stresses has been developed, which uses bromine intercalation to induce fracture in small graphite samples. Successful crack initiation and propagation has been achieved in 1:10 scale reactor components. In situ X-ray Computed Tomography during bromination has enabled observations of failure in real time, allowing the role of microstructure during fracture and weight loss to be determined. Crack paths predicted by models have been assessed.