Award

In light of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster, the nuclear industry and policy makers are seeking novel, reliable approaches to safeguard against similar, future catastrophes. One path of interest is the development of accident tolerant fuel cladding tubes. These are designed to shield the environment from the effects of nuclear fuel during normal operating conditions, as well as during worst-case scenarios, to mitigate the effects of meltdowns. To achieve this goal, silicon carbide is being investigated as a new cladding material; however, hermetically joining silicon carbide tubes to end plugs presents a technical challenge. The work proposed here addresses this challenge by applying a new approach—embedded wire chemical vapor deposition—that can economically form a hermetic, homogenous seal between the joined parts. Mechanical characterization of this homogeneous joint will be the main objective of this investigation. Support for the proposed work has been expressed from industry. If successful, Phase II or Phase III follow-up funding would support the work needed to allow the proposed innovation to advance the realization of accident tolerant fuel claddings. Thus, benefiting the wider public by mitigating the effects of a beyond-design-basis event.