According to research results published in the journal Materials Letters, scientists from Tomsk Polytechnic University (TPU) in Russia have discovered a solution to minimize the risk of radiation leaks, addressing one of the most pressing issues faced by the most common nuclear reactors worldwide today.
The researchers developed a coating for the fuel rod cladding in nuclear power plants, significantly enhancing corrosion resistance and nearly eliminating the risk of radiation leaks.
The newly developed coating is highly reliable and environmentally friendly.
Nuclear fuel rods are the main components of nuclear reactors, where the process of radioactive fission occurs. According to TPU scientists, in emergency situations when the temperature in the reactor core rises too high—referred to as “nuclear meltdown,” the reaction between steam and the zirconium cladding of the fuel rods can lead to radiation leaks. During the zirconium’s reaction with steam, highly flammable hydrogen is released; at this point, the cladding can easily lose its properties, resulting in gaps that lead to leaks.
To prevent such situations, the scientists created a special coating made of silicon carbide on the surface of the cladding. The newly developed coating is highly reliable, environmentally friendly, cost-effective to produce, and can be applied easily.
Professor Andrey Lider from the Department of Experimental Physics at TPU shared that the team of experts researched ways to modify the surface structure of various zirconium materials used in fuel rods. Testing demonstrated that the new coating developed by the team enhances protection against potential mechanical damage during operation.
The scientists further explained that the silicon carbide coating is capable of withstanding high temperatures and offers excellent corrosion resistance. TPU experts have identified optimal usage conditions for this material, allowing for the creation of a low-porosity, durable coating with high adhesion to the zirconium alloy surface.
Additionally, during the research, TPU scientists utilized ultrasonic tomography for the first time to monitor the condition of the protective coating on zirconium materials. The authors believe this method could become a crucial factor in safety systems at nuclear power plants.
In the future, the research team intends to continue improving the new coating, testing its corrosion resistance, conducting mechanical experiments, and developing application methods for coatings on products with complex shapes.
