| Abstract Scope |
Graphite plays a pivotal role in the safe and efficient operation of nuclear reactors. It is essential for maintaining structural integrity, effective thermal management, and providing neutron moderation.
The variety of graphite grades and the challenging reactor operating conditions require leveraging novel correlative X-ray and neutron methods in situ to investigate the microstructural and mechanical properties of nuclear graphite, aiming to enhance its performance and longevity under reactor conditions. In-situ high-speed tomography, combined tomography and diffraction stress measurements, in-situ neutron Bragg imaging and scattering have been developed and applied at international research facilities including Diamond, STFC-ISIS, ESRF, ILL and Soleil to investigate crystal reorientation, crack initiation and coalescence, brittle fracture, and notch sensitivity.
By integrating data from X-ray and neutron methods, researchers can develop a more holistic understanding of the material's behaviour, critical for improving predictive models and guiding the development of advanced graphite grades with enhanced performance. |