| Abstract |
| This study was focused on verifying quenching embrittlement property of Zircaloy-4 cladding in the simulated Loss Of Coolant Accident (LOCA) environment as well as finding suitable embrittlement criteria. Effect of Nb on the thermal embrittlement behavior was also investigated. Claddings were oxidized at given temperature and given time followed by cold water injection. Ring compression test and microstrucutal analysis on oxidized cladding were carried out. The results showed that transformed phase which formed at quenching stage, rather than oxygen-saturated a phase, has an influence on cladding property. In case of Nb effect, Nb retards cladding oxidation, thus enhances LOCA resistance. |
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| Key Words |
| Zirconium cladding, Loss of Coolant Accident, LOCA, Oxidation, Niobium |
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