Applications in the nuclear industry
Materials testing and thermal safety in the nuclear industry
Challenges and security aspects
The materials used in the nuclear sector have to withstand high mechanical, thermal and radiation-related stresses at the same time. In addition to thermal conductivity and expansion behavior, key parameters include stability against corrosion and radiation damage.
Nuclear energy
In areas such as nuclear energy, knowledge of the thermal characteristics of the materials used is an important safety factor.
In particular, it is important to prevent the radioactivity generated in the nuclear power plant or during a nuclear drive from escaping from the reactor. This can only be achieved if materials are used for the construction that can permanently withstand both the radiation and the high operating pressures and temperatures.
To determine this, LINSEIS has developed measuring devices in which the electronic components have been separated from the measuring device.
Progress in materials research for reactors
Modern research projects focus on the development of innovative zirconium-based alloys, ceramic composite systems and neutron-resistant materials for fuel rods and reactor housings. The targeted analysis of material ages, microcracks and phase transformations during reactor operation is one of the most important tasks of thermal analysis.
Thermal analysis methods and their advantages
Specialized measuring devices with a radiation-resistant design provide precise data on thermal properties even under extreme conditions. Important are:
- In-situ measurements at real operating pressures and temperatures
- Separate electronics to minimize interference
- Validation of safety margins for all safety-relevant components
Molten salts and new reactor types
Innovative nuclear fission and nuclear fusion reactors use FLiNaK and comparable salts as cooling or transfer media. Their analysis includes testing viscosity, corrosion resistance and long-term thermal stability under continuous irradiation.
Practical applications and future prospects
- Test concepts for new reactor types such as Small Modular Reactors (SMR)
- Simulation and testing of incident scenarios
- Long-term monitoring and service life analysis of reactor components
- Development of emergency materials with optimized thermal barrier properties
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