Authors:
Srinivasan Suresh (1), Gillham Joe (1), Marshall M. Jessica (1)
1- University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
Abstract:
Development of high-density radiation shielding is one of the key aspects in deploying new nuclear reactors (Gen IV fission and fusion) to decarbonize global energy production. The current candidate materials based on refractory metals and tungsten (W)-based alloys do not yet meet the engineering requirements of a practical power generating compact spherical tokamak (cST) reactor. Radiation shielding materials must fulfil not only the materials challenges and radiological safety requirements, but also the regulatory requirements in the case of accidents. Cemented tungsten carbide (cWC)-reactive sintered boride (RSB) composites are promising candidate for compact radiation-dense nuclear armour. This review presents the synthesis and characterization of cWC-RSB materials under various processing conditions for nuclear radiation shielding. This includes simulation of compositions and synthesis parameters of cWC-RSB composites using the CALPHAD method. The radiation attenuation capabilities, radiation damage and mechanical properties of cWC-RSP composites under various scenario, simulations and conditions are discussed.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59499/EP246283660
