Book Description

By using experimental data, the quantities determimng the extent of dissolved H redistribution under a thermal gradient in Zircaloy were calculated. It is concluded that the phenomenon of hydride precipitation by means of thermaI gradient diffusion of dissolved H in Zircaloy fuel plates and cladding places much more severe restrictions on the allowable pre-operation H content of such elements than was hitherto suspected. The specific effects of operating conditions on H content of plates and cladding are presented in detail. (M.H.R.).