Nondestructive Elemental Analysis of Corrosion and Wear Products from Primary and Secondary CANDU Water Circuits

Abstract

The application of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) for off-line and on-line analysis of corrosion-product transport (CPT) specimens is being evaluated, to monitor corrosion and wear products in CANDU water circuits. The method is suitable for nondestructive analysis of CPT filters from both primary and secondary sides (i.e., radioactive and nonradioactive specimens). The XRF method, the portable analyzer, and the work required to optimize their performance for CPT specimens are described. Measurements performed on station CPT specimens are discussed. Data on crud transport and composition were obtained, in particular iron and lead transport in secondary-side water and iron and zirconium in primary-side water. The possibility and requirements for quasi on-line analysis under operating conditions are also considered.