Einige gedanken zur errichtung von beton-containments

Abstract

Some ideas and suggestions for the utilization of concrete as a containment structural material are discussed. The purpose of this paper is to show that concrete can be used expediently only if one does not attempt to achieve simulation of individual qualities of steel with it, but if, starting from the properties and potential of this material, appropriate ideas of construction are pursued. In this context two considerations seem to be particularly valuable:

• 1.

  (1) When considering the variation of internal pressure with time, attention should be paid to the utilization of the large heat capacity of concrete. There follows: (a) A more realistic insight in the stress field within the concrete wall can be gained. (b) With the lowering of internal temperature the internal pressure decreases, thus giving rise to rapidly changing leak rates. (The definition of the leak rate gives a period of 24 hours, which, therefore, must be employed accordingly.)

• 2.

  (2) For reasons of construction and of protection against radiation it is often necessary to plan an intermediate space, which - together with the decreasing internal pressure and the large thickness of the wall - affects the overall leak rates.

The above-mentioned points will be discussed in section 1 and 2 of this paper. From this discussion it can be seen that, upon consideration of all the various aspects, concrete containments, no doubt, promise profitable results. (The considerations given in this paper represent only first thoughts of the author. The reason to present these considerations already in this early state is the intention to incite further more detailed pursue of the subject of concrete containment structures.)