Synergistic Effects Between Radiation Chemistry and Carbon Steel Corrosion in the Calandria Vault and End Shield Cooling System of a CANDU Reactor

Abstract

Significant quantities of dissolved hydrogen, oxygen and hydrogen peroxide can be produced from the radiolytic breakdown of water in the calandria vault and end shield cooling system of a CANDU reactor. This laboratory study was performed to develop a better understanding of the synergies between the kinetics of radiolytic reactions and corrosion of carbon steel components. Additionally, investigations into the effectiveness of hydrazine and methanol as oxygen scavengers in irradiated systems were conducted as a means of controlling hydrogen cover gas concentration.