Fluid-Phase Transitions in Light Water and Heavy Water

Abstract

Phase transitions are important phenomena in water-cooled nuclear-fission reactors. In this study, liquid-vapour phase transitions and critical-point behaviour are considered. Special attention is given to the van der Waals model, asymptotic critical scaling, thermodynamic potentials and steam properties. Models and data are shown for light water and heavy water. The relevance to advanced Generation III reactors and proposed Generation IV reactors is assessed.