004 IAEA Coordinated Research Project on the Establishment of ...

Radiation Damage & Ageing Mechanisms
1) Ageing is degradation of original properties (from MICRO to MACRO) due
multiple mechanisms (radiation, temperature, chemistry, etc…).
2) RR Structural Materials should be properly selected at the design
stage, maintained and aged managed.
3) RR Structural materials are characterized as follows:
a) Safety – category of component (I/II).
b) Design – replaceable (i.e., vessel)/irreplaceable (core grid,
internals, etc..)
4) RD&A mechanisms: embrittlement, thermal creep, swelling, cracking and
corrosion/erosion, all must be carefully predicted and monitored
5) Primary focus is on scientific justification to extend the pre-designed life
service.