초록 ▼

Zirconium-based components for nuclear reactors are disclosed whereby a rare earth or other metal which preferentially concentrates hydrogen when in contact with zirconium is dispersed as a second phase throughout a zirconium-based matrix. The morphology and distribution of the two-phase material is

Zirconium-based components for nuclear reactors are disclosed whereby a rare earth or other metal which preferentially concentrates hydrogen when in contact with zirconium is dispersed as a second phase throughout a zirconium-based matrix. The morphology and distribution of the two-phase material is controlled such that the second phase, internal hydrogen absorbing particles, are provided as spherical particles, randomly distributed, to minimize the effects of the occluded hydrogen.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [10.] A cladding tube for housing fissionable material in a water cooled nuclear fission reactor, the cladding comprising:(a) a tubular matrix of zirconium or zirconium alloy having inner and outer surfaces; and(b) a second phase of generally spherical particles distributed ra

[ What is claimed is:] [10.] A cladding tube for housing fissionable material in a water cooled nuclear fission reactor, the cladding comprising:(a) a tubular matrix of zirconium or zirconium alloy having inner and outer surfaces; and(b) a second phase of generally spherical particles distributed randomly throughout the zirconium or zirconium alloy matrix, the second phase particles including an element which preferentially absorbs hydrogen and thereby prevent at least a fraction of hydrogen absorbed by the cladding tube from reacting with the zirconium or zirconium alloy matrix.