Author: Ramshesh, V.

Source: Science Progress, Volume 84, Number 1, February 2001 , pp. 69-85(17)

Publisher: Science Reviews 2000 Ltd

Abstract:

In water cooled and water moderated reactors (H₂O in boiling water reactors/pressurised water reactors, D₂O in pressurised heavy water reactors) during normal operation, radiolysis is a source of production of hydrogen/deuterium and oxygen. During the progress of a nuclear accident, while there are other important sources of hydrogen/deuterium, the oxygen availability can occur only through radiolysis or direct contact with air. In air saturated with water vapour at room temperature and pressure when H₂/D₂ concentration exceeds 4 vol% (a conservative estimate), a combustible mixture with oxygen can be formed. It is proposed to examine the basic principles of water radiolysis as far as they pertain to generation of H₂/D₂ and O₂ and try to apply these concepts to reactors both under operating conditions and in accident situations. It is concluded that the possibility of an accident taking place through radiolysis is highly unlikely.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3184/003685001783239087

Affiliations: 1: Science Review, PO Box 314, St. Albans, Herts AL1 4ZG, UK

Publication date: 2001-02-15

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