Coupled analysis of oxidation corrosion and heat transfer in lead-cooled fast reactors

• Published in: Annals of nuclear energy Vol. 211; p. 110919
• Main Authors: Zhang, Yan, Wang, Bo, Zhang, Dalin, Wang, Chenglong, Yang, Yang, Guo, Zhengrong, Tian, Wenxi, Su, Guanghui, Qiu, Suizheng
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.02.2025
• Subjects: Coupled analysis; Distribution of oxygen concentration; Lead cooled fast reactor; Liquid metal corrosion; Thermal-hydraulic characteristics; Lead cooled fast reactor; Liquid metal corrosion; Coupled analysis; Thermal-hydraulic characteristics; Distribution of oxygen concentration
• ISSN: 0306-4549
• DOI: 10.1016/j.anucene.2024.110919

•Analysis code coupling with thermal–hydraulic and oxidation corrosion is developed.•Reactor concept LESMOR and BREST-OD-300 are modeled using the coupled code, and the oxide thickness and temperature distribution change during a refueling cycle are given.•Considering the significant coupling influence between thermal-hydraulics and oxidation corrosion, the necessity of oxygen control system is identified. The coupled code LETHAC-Oxide is developed for analysis of thermal–hydraulic and safety characteristics in lead-cooled fast reactors, considering the impact of oxidation corrosion during prolonged operation. Based on experimental data from CORRIDA, Tsu-2M, and SM-1 facility, the oxidation model is well verified. The reactor concepts LESMOR and BREST-OD-300 are modeled, and the results show that the oxide layer significantly influences heat transfer, particularly at higher temperatures. A comparison between LESMOR and BREST-OD-300 demonstrates that a 95 °C difference in average system temperature will cause 14 times increase in oxide layer thickness and 7 times decrease in steam generator heat exchange capability. Conclusively, LESMOR forms a protective oxide film after a refueling cycle, offering structural material protection without major heat transfer impact. In contrast, BREST-OD-300 shows a substantial increase in cladding temperature and decrease in heat transfer capacity. This result underscores the necessity of oxygen control technology to mitigate risks associated with oxidation corrosion, providing valuable insights for optimal reactor performance and safety.