RECENT IMPROVEMENTS IN THE CORE-MELT RETENTION CONCEPT OF THE EUROPEAN PRESSURIZED REACTOR (EPR)

摘要

The proof that the existing basemat cooling system can absorb and transfer to the water any heat flux, the melt can physically deliver, allows the elimination of the protective layer and, in consequence, a significant simplification of the EPR melt stabilization concept. As a result, remaining concerns regarding the long-term stability of the core catcher and the potentially long period of liquid melt conditions are eliminated, thanks to the fact that a complete solidification of the spread melt can now be achieved within days. The modified cooling strategy leads to a significant easing of the requirements on materials and systems, as well as to a reduction in costs. The described simplified design is expected to result in an improved acceptance of the overall concept.