Phase Field Modeling of Corrosion in Molten Salt Reactors

Abstract

As the world increasingly adopts nuclear power to meet growing energy demands, Molten Salt Reactors (MSRs) are emerging as a promising solution due to their safety, cost-efficiency, and non-proliferation characteristics. MSRs employ molten salt for both fuel and coolant purposes, enabling high-temperature operation and maximizing efficiency. However, the direct interaction of molten salt with reactor materials poses corrosion risks like stress corrosion cracking and dealloying. Addressing corrosion is a major challenge in MSR development and deployment. In this review article, we conducted a small-scale literature review on corrosion of candidate alloys used in simulated environments for reactor components thus far. Additionally, we propose employing phase-field modelling, which is a method for modelling microstructures to anticipate the evolution of microstructures in MSRs. This approach offers valuable insights into the mechanisms of corrosion, thus contributing to a better understanding of how corrosion occurs in MSRs. Our objective is to develop effective methodologies that mitigate corrosion in alloys exposed to molten salts in MSRs.